Ecowatch: It's about more than planting trees

Scientists working to rehabilitate mangrove forests need to tap into the knowledge of local communities who understand the species found in their area, recognise changes in the health of the ecosystem, and provide historical insights into how mangrove forests have changed over time. — Filepic/AFP

THE involvement of local communities is fundamental to conserving Malaysia’s mangrove forests because this ecosystem is deeply connected to the lives, livelihoods, and cultural heritage of people living along our coasts, says Leela Panikkar, director of Treat Every Environment Special (TrEES).

“For many coastal communities, mangroves are more than forests.