Planting the Seeds of Environmental Care: Mangrove Reforestation in Coastal Areas of Masanto

Abstract

IntroductionLiving in coastal communities deservesa closer look as it may run-up to the probability of facing a lot of challenges amid the stormy season, when coastal become hit by natural calamities, for instance, storms, surges or tsunamis, that may create a disaster to the community. But mangrove forests can help mitigate the results, in this way, a need to plant their seeds can truly secure people living in coastal areas. With global warming and sea-level rise, it is important to look after mangroves and provide the necessary measure to save them. Awareness about the significance of the mangrove ecosystem and the involvement of local communities in their management can add to better security. MethodsNarrative qualitative research was employed and utilized in addressing the research questions. The methodology involved an examination of the perceptions of coastal inhabitants in Masantol, Pampanga about mangroves. Investigations revolved around data and documents from articles, school reports, news reports, journals, and reflections. There were interviews with informants and other officials directly involved in the utilization of the project. ResultsThe study revealed that mangrove forests are very essential in the environment. It provides habitat for marine organisms like fishes, crabs, seashells, and shrimps. Moreover, its main function is to safeguard coastal areas against the strong waves of tsunamis, erosion and also typhoons. Almost all informants use mangroves as their food source since they are a valuable habitat for fish and crabs. The data showed that coastal community people are aware of the issues faced by their community, so, informants volunteered in tree planting, clean and green projects, and are engaged in mangrove reforestation to replace mangroves that have been a loss. DiscussionDueto the importance of the mangrove ecosystem and the issues that might endanger the life of mangroves, coastal community people conducted mangrove reforestation and rehabilitation in their locality. Mangroves will be a good help not only in balancing the ecosystem but also serve as their protector and shield against storm surge, tsunami, erosion, and typhoon. It also showed how informants promote mangrove planting in schools, other localities and different private sectors with the help of the local government. This study provided a better understanding of the socio-economic importance of the mangrove ecosystem and tackled issues regarding environmental awareness of community people and local government.