From Seed to Shoreline: Cultivating Climate Resilience with Mangrove Nurseries

Mangroves are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity and play a critical role in human life, particularly for coastal communities. Globally, mangroves are recognized for their contribution to climate resilience by storing carbon, protecting shorelines from erosion, and supporting fisheries and livelihoods. However, they remain one of the most threatened ecosystems, with deforestation rates exceeding those of tropical forests.

Kandelia Alam (KLIA), as part of the Nusantara Climate Initiative (NCI), is proud to contribute to the global movement for mangrove restoration. Guided by NCI’s vision to create a sustainable and resilient future and its mission to implement innovative, nature-based solutions, KLIA has positioned itself as a leader in ecosystem restoration.

International efforts, such as those led by IUCN, aim to expand mangrove cover by 20% by 2030, focusing on biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and sustainable livelihoods. Similarly, Indonesia, the world’s largest mangrove holder, targets rehabilitating 600,000 hectares by 2024 through the Mangrove and Peat Restoration Agency (BRGM). KLIA’s initiatives in Kalimantan align with both global and national priorities, contributing to ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, and community support.

KLIA plants thousands of mangrove seedlings monthly, cultivated through its in-house nursery facilities. These nurseries, with a capacity of over 100,000 seedlings, prioritize native species, including Bakau (Rhizophora apiculata), Tumu (Bruguiera gymnorrhiza), Belukap (Rhizophora mucronata), and Nyirih (Xylocarpus granatum).

Despite challenges, such as pest attacks that once resulted in the loss of over 6,000 seedlings in a week, KLIA’s team has shown remarkable resilience and innovation. Sustainable practices, like reducing plastic polybag use by 50%, and experiments in germination techniques and acclimatization processes have further enhanced KLIA’s impact.

NCI envisions a world where nature-based solutions, like mangrove restoration, are at the heart of climate resilience and community welfare. KLIA’s work contributes directly to this mission, improving ecosystems, supporting livelihoods, and advancing Indonesia’s coastal rehabilitation goals.

Author: Randi Agusti

Copy Edit: Yessi Agustina; Barakalla Robyn

#NusantaraClimateInitiative #NatureBasedSolutions #MangroveRestoration #ClimateAction

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!