HONG KONG, Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mangrove forests serve as critical ecosystems that support biodiversity, protect coastlines, and act as powerful carbon sinks. In the latest episode of Going Green, CNN explores efforts to not only revive these essential ecosystems but also empower local communities to protect their environment.

In Kubu Raya, Indonesia, CNN spoke with Adam Miller, an ornithologist by training and now the executive director of Planet Indonesia, an international non-profit organization formed in 2014 that conserves at-risk ecosystems through community-level partnerships. Originally moving from the United States to study local birdlife, he soon realized that conservation initiatives in the country often excluded the very communities that were needed to build an inclusive conservation system.

Planet Indonesia begins its restoration efforts by mapping mangrove ecosystems to identify critical areas for local communities. The process involves pinpointing degraded areas for revitalization while considering the social and biophysical aspects of these ecosystems to ensure sustainable outcomes. Adam also emphasized that this process includes assessing the feasibility of restoration and engaging local communities to take the lead.

Using a restoration method called 'Assisted Natural Regeneration', which involves removing contaminants, protecting the area from threats, restoring water flow and tree planting, the Kubu Raya community has taken proactive steps in mangrove conservation. They have even created eco-friendly planters from locally sourced Nipah leaves, which replace conventional plastic containers. These biodegradable planters not only reduce plastic waste but also provide essential nutrients to young saplings. The community recognizes that without a healthy mangrove forest, their food supply and ultimately their livelihood are at risk. Across the 20,000 hectares of mangroves surveyed, Adam noted that regeneration efforts have outpaced deforestation rates over the past seven years.

With over 17,000 islands and vast coastlines, Indonesia's mangroves present a remarkable opportunity to highlight the power of community-led conservation on a global stage.

Going Green trailer: https://bit.ly/3OhGBJl
Going Green images: https://bit.ly/3OBXZJj
Going Green microsite: https://cnn.it/3bMvOqF

Airtime for 30-minute program:
Saturday, 23^rd November at 1:30pm HKT
Sunday, 24^th November at 1:30am, 10:30am and 7pm HKT
Monday, 25^th November at 12:30am HKT

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Source: CNN International