Why do we need to protect and care for mangrove ecosystems?

Why do we need to protect and care for mangrove ecosystems?

 This question is crucial to consider amidst the current state of mangrove land degradation. Mangrove trees offer numerous benefits, such as preventing abrasion, purifying water, providing habitat for marine life, providing a source of income for coastal communities, and absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2). According to calculations by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), mangrove ecosystems can store 3-5 times more carbon than ordinary terrestrial forests. Furthermore, Indonesia has 23% of the world's mangroves, making it the world's largest and most diverse mangrove forest. With this potential, Indonesia is in a crucial position to address the global problem facing its citizens: CO2 absorption. However, mangrove forests continue to experience land degradation, threatening the destruction of every mangrove ecosystem. The question is, are we willing to lose this natural wealth that should be passed on to our generation and future generations?