Mangroves for the future : a strategy for promoting investment in coastal ecosystem conservation 2007-2012

Mangroves are among the most valuable ecosystems providing food and protection for a large number of marine and land-based organisms, livelihoods for coastal populations, and protection from ocean swell and other extreme weather events for low-lying coastal areas. In the wake of the 2004 Indian ocean tsunami there was a strong realization that much of the future devastation to human life and property could be avoided through the existence of healthy, properly-managed and conserved mangroves. In collaboration with other stakeholders, IUCN launched Mangroves for the Future, a partnership-led initiative to encourage investment in coastal ecosystem conservation. This report presents an overview of this initiative, the case for increased investment, and a framework for its implementation over the coming five years.