International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem

In celebration of International Mangrove Conservation Day falling on 2026.07.26, the Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center has organized a webinar series.

Mangroves are facing serious threats worldwide. It is believed that over 75% of global mangrove ecosystems are at risk, endangering not only the trees themselves but also the diverse aquatic and land-based species that rely on them for survival. Recognizing their ecological importance, UNESCO is actively working to safeguard these vital blue carbon habitats. Through its global networks—Biosphere Reserves, Global Geoparks, and natural World Heritage sites—UNESCO promotes conservation and sustainable management of mangroves and other critical coastal ecosystems.

  • In May 2015, Sri Lanka became the first country to legally protect all its remaining mangroves—around 21,782 acres’
  • The world’s first museum dedicated to mangroves is the Lanka Mangrove Museum, located in Sri Lanka.

History

World Mangrove Day is observed on July 26 every year to raise awareness about the vital role mangroves play in protecting our coasts and ecosystems. Sadly, since 1980, nearly 50% of the world’s mangrove forests have been lost, and in some regions, the loss exceeds 80%. Mangroves thrive along tropical and subtropical shorelines, where conditions are harsh—salty water, tidal flooding, and low oxygen in the soil. Only around 110 plant species are specially adapted to survive in such challenging environments, which is why true mangroves are rare. These trees grow with their roots exposed in complex, cage-like structures that not only anchor them against strong waves but also provide vital shelter and breeding grounds for fish, crabs, and other marine life.

Preserving mangrove ecosystems is critical—they protect coastlines from erosion, reduce the damage caused by storm surges and tsunamis, and play a key role in capturing carbon, helping to reduce the impact of climate change.World Mangrove Day is observed on July 26 every year to raise awareness about the vital role mangroves play in protecting our coasts and ecosystems. Sadly, since 1980, nearly 50% of the world’s mangrove forests have been lost, and in some regions, the loss exceeds 80%. Mangroves thrive along tropical and subtropical shorelines, where conditions are harsh—salty water, tidal flooding, and low oxygen in the soil. Only around 110 plant species are specially adapted to survive in such challenging environments, which is why true mangroves are rare. These trees grow with their roots exposed in complex, cage-like structures that not only anchor them against strong waves but also provide vital shelter and breeding grounds for fish, crabs, and other marine life. Preserving mangrove ecosystems is critical—they protect coastlines from erosion, reduce the damage caused by storm surges and tsunamis, and play a key role in capturing carbon, helping to reduce the impact of climate change.

World Mangrove Day is observed on July 26 every year to raise awareness about the vital role mangroves play in protecting our coasts and ecosystems. Sadly, since 1980, nearly 50% of the world’s mangrove forests have been lost, and in some regions, the loss exceeds 80%. Mangroves thrive along tropical and subtropical shorelines, where conditions are harsh—salty water, tidal flooding, and low oxygen in the soil. Only around 110 plant species are specially adapted to survive in such challenging environments, which is why true mangroves are rare. These trees grow with their roots exposed in complex, cage-like structures that not only anchor them against strong waves but also provide vital shelter and breeding grounds for fish, crabs, and other marine life. Preserving mangrove ecosystems is critical—they protect coastlines from erosion, reduce the damage caused by storm surges and tsunamis, and play a key role in capturing carbon, helping to reduce the impact of climate change.

💡 Why Mangroves Matter

  • Carbon sinks: Absorb up to five times more CO₂ per hectare than typical forests

  • Coastal defense: Buffers against tsunamis, floods, and erosion—showcased during the 2004 disaster

  • Biodiversity hotspots: Host mangroves like Sonneratia alba, Bruguiera gymnorhiza, Avicennia marina, and Nypa fruticans, supporting fish, crabs, birds, turtles, and more

Mangrove Webinar Series 2026

Advancing Science, Conservation and Community Action for Mangrove Ecosystems

comprehensive learning pathway, Introduction to mangrove conservation, Mangrove ecology, Evolution of mangroves, Coastal vulnerability, Distribution and management, Carbon sequestration, Restoration ecology, Invasive species, Biodiversity, Climate resilience

E-Certificates will be awarded to registered participants who attend the mandatory opening session on 10 July and at least six additional webinar sessions. Attendance will be verified through Zoom participation records.

Poster for Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center event with 'Panel of Expert' and three speaker photos; includes schedule and QR code area.

Session 01

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Event poster for Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center promoting a Zoom program on mangrove migration, with session details and panel of experts.

Session 02

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Poster announcing a Zoom program by Lanka Mangrove Museum: Dark tide: addiction and coastal vulnerability, July 13, 2026, 7:00–9:00 p.m., Panel of Experts image included near the bottom.

Session 03

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Poster for Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center promoting a Zoom session on mangrove conservation; includes session details and a “Panel of Expert” banner with speaker photos in circles.

Session 04

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Session 05

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Session 06

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Session 07

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Poster for Lanka Mangrove Museum announcing a Zoom talk on bird diversity in mangrove ecosystems; features 'Panel of Expert' and event details.

Session 08

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Poster for Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center announcing a Zoom program on July 26, 2026, titled Salinity and coastal resilience: challenges and opportunities for mangrove ecosystems; includes Session 09 and a Panel of Experts with two speaker photos.

Session 09

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