Gland, Switzerland, 22 May 2024 (IUCN) – In a groundbreaking global assessment, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has revealed that more than half of the world’s mangrove ecosystems are at imminent risk of collapse by 2050. This alarming finding was published today to mark the International Day for Biodiversity. The comprehensive assessment, the first of its kind to evaluate an entire ecosystem group globally using the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems, highlights the precarious state of mangroves. According to the report, 50% of the assessed mangrove ecosystems are classified as either Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered. Key Findings of the Assessment Vulnerability: The report indicates that numerous mangrove ecosystems are highly susceptible to threats such as coastal development, pollution, climate change, and deforestation. These factors contribute to the degradation and loss of critical mangrove habitats. Ecosystem Services: Mangroves are vital for coastal protection, supporting fisheries, and sequestering carbon. Their collapse would not only affect biodiversity but also the livelihoods of millions of people dependent on these ecosystems. Geographical Spread: The assessment covered mangrove regions across the globe, from the dense forests of Southeast Asia to the sparse mangroves along the coastlines of the Americas and Africa. It underscores the widespread nature of the threats facing these crucial ecosystems. Implications for Conservation The IUCN's assessment is a call to action for the global community. The potential collapse of mangrove ecosystems poses a significant risk to biodiversity and human well-being. The findings emphasize the urgent need for concerted conservation efforts to protect and restore mangrove forests. Dr. Jane Smart, Global Director of IUCN’s Biodiversity Conservation Group, stated, "The collapse of mangrove ecosystems would have devastating consequences for both nature and people. We must intensify our efforts to protect these vital ecosystems and address the root causes of their decline." Steps Forward In response to the report, the IUCN is advocating for: Enhanced Protection: Implementing stricter regulations and creating more protected areas to safeguard mangrove ecosystems from further destruction. Restoration Projects: Investing in large-scale restoration projects to rehabilitate degraded mangrove forests and ensure their long-term resilience. Sustainable Practices: Promoting sustainable land-use and development practices that minimize impacts on mangrove ecosystems. Climate Action: Addressing climate change through mitigation and adaptation strategies to reduce the vulnerability of mangroves to rising sea levels and increased storm activity. Conclusion The IUCN’s first global assessment of mangrove ecosystems serves as a critical warning. With half of these ecosystems at risk of collapse by 2050, immediate and sustained action is essential to prevent irreversible damage. Protecting mangroves is not just about conserving biodiversity; it is about preserving the very foundation of coastal life and the services that support millions of people around the world.