Myanmar Mangrove Reforestation Project
Northern Ayeyarwady Division, Myanmar
This project in the Northern Ayeyarwady Division of Myanmar seeks to rejuvenate and safeguard 2,265.47 hectares of deteriorated land. The restoration efforts, falling under the Verified Carbon Standard's (VCS) restoration category, will involve activities like afforestation, reforestation, and revegetation. The project zone covers Magyi, Thabawkan, and Thaegone village tracts, where the goal is to establish a thriving mangrove ecosystem.
Why Offsetra chose this project
Mangrove forests excel as CO2 absorption champions, capturing up to five times more carbon dioxide from the air than other forest types. They store this CO2 in their biomass and nutrient-rich soils for thousands of years.
This project exemplifies blue carbon — referring to carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems like mangroves, tidal marshes, and seagrasses. Blue carbon is prized for its effectiveness in combating climate change while also delivering positive social, economic, and environmental benefits.
Project Economic & Social Benefits
This project addresses several UN Sustainable Development Goals, such as Goal 13 (Climate Action) through its carbon sequestration efforts, Goal 14 (Life Below Water) by restoring vital marine habitats, and Goal 1 (No Poverty) and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by enhancing local livelihoods and fostering sustainable economic development.
- Biodiversity Hotspots: Mangrove forests thrive as hubs of biodiversity, holding immense ecological significance.
- Critical Nurseries: They serve as critical nurseries for a wide range of wildlife, including fish, coral reefs, tropical birds, crocodiles, and even white elephants.
- Root Filtration: Their intricate root systems act as a natural filtration solution by capturing silt and preventing sediment buildup in seagrass meadows and coral reefs.
The project also supports income-generating activities that help reduce poverty and provide protection for the country's vulnerable coastal communities.
- Empowerment of Women: More than half of the local staff involved in the project are women, fostering support for gender equality and economic empowerment.
- Resilience: The project contributes to safeguarding communities from severe weather events like tsunamis and floods.
- Community Education and Upskilling: The initiative also extends assistance in local community education and skills enhancement, bolstered by a scholarship program.
