High-Tech Mangrove Nursery: Engineering Resilience through Carbon Project
High-Tech Mangrove Nursery: Engineering Resilience through Carbon Project
This presentation outlines innovative strategies and technologies for minimizing mortality and maximizing longevity in mangrove restoration efforts in the Sundarbans, focusing on cutting-edge technology for increased carbon sequestration and environmental resilience.
A total carbon sequestration of 3,700 ton CO2e sequestration/yr for 25 years
Swapan & Sravan
Introduction
- Mangroves, the unsung heroes of our ecosystems, hold the key to achieving a net-zero future.
- As natural carbon sinks, their ability to absorb and store carbon dioxide is unmatched (5-8 times more than Forests)
- Vital role of mangroves – sustaining an ecological balance, mitigating climate change, and safeguarding our planet for generations to come.
The Urgency & Opportunity
Restoring the Sundarbans for a Sustainable Future
01. Global Significance of the Sundarbans.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering over 4,000 km² of unique mangrove ecosystems vital for biodiversity.
02. Exceptional Carbon Storage Potential
The Sundarbans has a remarkable carbon storage capacity, featuring 244 Mg C/ha, significantly surpassing typical tropical forests (Taillardat et al., 2022).
03. Threats Facing the Ecosystem
Major threats include rising sea levels, increased cyclone intensity, and salinity intrusion, all exacerbating the vulnerability of mangroves.
04. Our Restoration Mission
Aim to restore mangroves with less than 10% mortality rate and ensure over 30 years of longevity in growth and health.
Hydrological Modeling Utilizes GIS and satellite data (Sentinel-2) to accurately map tidal patterns and salinity levels.
Advanced Infrastructure Equipped with sensor-controlled retractable shade nets and durable, storm-resistant polyhouses.
Proximity to Planting Sites Identifies locations with close access to planting sites alongside controlled brackish water supplies.
Species Selection: Climate-Smart Genetics
Strategic choices for resilient mangrove species incorporating future climate modeling and local genotype trials.
01
Priority Species Selection
Focus on Heritiera fomes, Avicennia officinalis, and Rhizophora mucronata to optimize ecological resilience.
02
Provenance Trials Partnership
Collaborate with IUCN and Khulna University to test local genotypes for adaptability and performance.
03
Ecological Niche Modeling
Use 2050 climate scenario projections to future-proof species selection and ensure long-term success.
Breakthrough Tech in Propagation
Utilizing cutting-edge technologies to enhance mangrove propagation significantly.
Saltwater Hydroponics
Employing precise salinity and nutrient control for accelerated root growth in seedlings.
Aquaponics Integration
Using tilapia and mullet effluent as a natural, organic fertilizer in the growth process.
Air-Pruning Containers
Eliminating root circling and achieving up to 40% faster establishment in the field.
Innovative Plant Hardening Techniques
Utilizing microclimates for plant growth Creating microclimates helps to protect plants from harsh weather conditions and enhances their resilience.
Employing hormonal treatments for hardening Applying specific hormones can stimulate plant defenses and improve adaptability to diverse climates.
Implementing soil amendments for better resilience Adding organic and inorganic amendments enriches soil, leading to stronger and more resilient plants.
Planting and Stabilization
Advanced techniques enhancing mangrove nursery resilience through eco-friendly deployment and erosion control
Drone-Assisted Terrain Mapping
Utilizes drones for precise mapping and sapling deployment across challenging mudflat environments.
Biodegradable Cocoon® Anchors
Eco-friendly shields protect saplings from crab interference and wave erosion.
Bamboo Bio-Stakes for Erosion Control
Sustainable bamboo stakes provide effective erosion resistance without relying on plastic.
Triple Bottom Line
Emphasizing three critical aspects: carbon sequestration, ecological preservation, and
Carbon Sequestration
Capturing approximately 244,000 tons of CO₂ from 1,000 hectares, aiding in climate
Ecological Benefits
Providing essential habitats for diverse wildlife, including tigers, dolphins, and
Community Resilience
Enhancing disaster resilience for approximately 4.5 million people, fostering
Alignment with SDGs
Contributing to Sustainable Development Goals: Climate action, life below water, and
Activities & Outcomes
Community Activities:
- Training programs on mangrove restoration techniques and blue carbon monitoring.
- Awareness campaigns on ecosystem services and climate resilience.
- Development of alternative livelihoods like honey harvesting and sustainable agriculture.
Expected Outcomes:
- Increased carbon sequestration and improved mangrove health.
- Socioeconomic upliftment of local communities.
- Strengthened community resilience to climate-induced disasters.
Community Engagement & SDG Alignment
SDG 1: No Poverty
Livelihood generation through mangrove-based eco-tourism and sustainable aquaculture.
SDG 13: Climate Action
Empowering communities to mitigate climate change by restoring mangroves as carbon sinks.
SDG 14: Life Below Water
Promoting sustainable fisheries and biodiversity conservation in coastal ecosystems.
SDG 15: Life on Land
Enhancing the health and coverage of mangroves to support terrestrial biodiversity.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Building multi-stakeholder partnerships involving local communities, NGOs, and government agencies.
