Mangrove Benefits

Related with its presence, mangrove forests provide many benefits to the balance of environment and supporting human life. Mangrove forest benefits can be divided into ecological and socio-economic functions.

The ecological function of mangrove forest are as follows:

Act as natural barrier to protect seacoast/land from sea abrasion/erosion

Act as natural barrier to reduce the impact of tsunami wave if occur

Act buffer zone to prevent seawater intrusion into nearby freshwater source

Natural habitat for many species of terrestrial and marine biota

Place for shelter, feeding, spawning and breeding for various species of fish and crustacean

Source of germplasm and genetic resources

Stabilize sedimentation

Improve water and air quality

Site of the recycling process that produces oxygen

Site to absorb and store carbon

The socio-economic function of mangrove forest are as follows:

Wood products utilization from mangrove tree such as charcoal, firewood, timber pole, wood chips and pulp

Non-timber forest products utilization such as tannins, nipa palm products, medicines, honey, etc.

Area for fisheries and aquaculture

Natural tourist attraction with an aesthetic value that can be found through its landscape and all the life therein

Improving the economy of the surrounding communities by providing employment and business opportunities such as: opening food stall, boat rental and tour guide, etc.

A place for research and education activities that act as field laboratory