Championing Coastal Ecosystems in the Climate Fight

As a biomedical scientist deeply fascinated by the intricate workings of biological systems and their role in sustaining life on Earth, I have long been drawn to the power of nature-based solutions in our global response to climate change. The unchecked rise in unsustainable human activities has led to a dangerous buildup of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere, fueling climate change and its devastating impacts—particularly in coastal communities, where rising sea levels and high temperatures are eroding ecosystems and accelerating biodiversity loss.

Among the most affected yet undervalued ecosystems are mangrove swamps. While they occupy less than one percent of global tropical forest cover, mangroves sequester carbon at a rate four times greater than terrestrial forests. This makes them one of the most potent tools we have in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and securing a liveable planet for future generations.

To protect and restore these critical ecosystems, I am proud to introduce an initiative under the Biological Diversity and Climate Resilience agenda, titled “Mangrove Advocates.” This project seeks to:

• Engage stakeholders—including farmers and fishers—to adopt aquaculture and agricultural practices that protect and enhance mangrove health.

• Collaborate with policymakers, communities, and organizations to advocate for and enforce stricter protections for mangrove swamps.

• Raise awareness among the public, especially coastal dwellers, about the ecological and climate significance of mangroves through education campaigns and media engagement.

  
  

This initiative recognizes that biological diversity is not just a victim of climate change—it is also a powerful solution. By restoring and defending our mangrove ecosystems, we take a bold step toward achieving net-zero emissions while empowering communities to thrive sustainably.

As a volunteer for Frontline for Climate Action, I am committed to driving grassroots solutions that protect our environment, empower communities, and build resilience in the face of climate change.

I invite individuals, institutions, and climate actors to join me in this vital effort. Let’s protect what protects us. Let’s become Mangrove Advocates.

#ActNow for Nature, for Climate, for Our Future.

By Masopeh M. Marley

Biomedical Scientist & Climate Advocate

frontlineclimateaction@gmail.com