An International Assessment of Mangrove Management: Incorporation in Integrated Coastal Zone Management and Land-use Planning

In the past, there was widespread disregard for mangrove ecosystems; as a result they were carelessly overused and destroyed to make room for coastal developments and aquaculture ponds. Once governments began to recognize that mangroves support jobs and the tourism industry, sustain commercial fish stocks, and act as a storm buffer for coastal communities, protection policies began to emerge under wetland and forestry programs (Clark, 1996). Although mangrove protection has been incorporated in integrated coastal zone management programs and marine protected areas, it appears there is still room for improvement. Due to the fact that coastal populations are rapidly growing, governments must also take inland activities into account to prevent further harm to the coasts. It is recommended that land-use reforms be implemented in conjunction with all coastal zone management programs to prohibit additional development in fragile mangrove habitat. Therefore, human activities must be managed along with the natural resources to create a balance between development and conservation. Successful mangrove management will require “a blend of strategies” and incorporation of all levels of government (Beatley et al., 2002). Legally binding policies will be necessary to ensure the implementation of integrated coastal zone management, land-use reforms, and restoration of damaged mangroves

An International Assessment of Mangrove Management: Incorporation in Integrated Coastal Zone Management

Due to increasing recognition of the benefits provided by mangrove ecosystems, protection policies have emerged under both wetland and forestry programs. However, little consistency remains among these programs and inadequate coordination exists among sectors of government. With approximately 123 countries containing mangroves, the need for global management of these ecosystems is crucial to sustain the industries (i.e., fisheries, timber, and tourism) and coastal communities that mangroves support and protect. To determine the most effective form of mangrove management, this review examines management guidelines, particularly those associated with Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM). Five case studies were reviewed to further explore the fundamentals of mangrove management. The management methodologies of two developed nations as well as three developing nations were assessed to encompass comprehensive influences on mangrove management, such as socioeconomics, politics, and land-use regulations. Based on this review, successful mangrove management will require a blend of forestry, wetland, and ICZM programs in addition to the cooperation of all levels of government. Legally binding policies, particularly at the international level, will be essential to successful mangrove management, which must include the preservation of existing mangrove habitat and restoration of damaged mangroves