There are over 60 different species of mangrove trees, all specialized to grow along waterlogged coastlines in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite being relatively unknown, they are crucial in climate change mitigation. They have a unique ability to thrive in saltwater environments, and their strong and complex root systems also protect coastal communities and landscapes from extreme weather events, like hurricanes.
This infographic was developed based on extensive field measurements in 38 mangrove forests spanning the Indonesian archipelago. The rate of mangrove deforestation (followed by aquaculture development) is equal to the size of two football fields per week, and contributes 30% of Indonesian land-based emissions, while mangrove deforestation is only 6% of total deforestation.
