Mangrove forests are recovering naturally after decades of destruction, storing more carbon than terrestrial forests

Mangrove forests can store up to five times more carbon than terrestrial forests and also protect millions of people from tsunamis and storms. After decades of decline due to development and fish farming, a new study shows that since 2010, mangrove growth has surpassed losses. The main driver is natural regeneration when human destruction stops. The net loss since the 1980s has fallen to about 849 km squared. However, recovery is not uniform and some progress may have negative aspects. Legal protections and public awareness after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami have helped, but the key factor is the mangroves' own ability to regrow when left alone.