Restoring Mangroves for Climate Resilience in Haiti

In Haiti, conservationists are actively working to restore mangrove ecosystems as part of a broader initiative to enhance climate adaptation and biodiversity. The country has seen a significant decline in mangrove coverage, dropping from 16,462 hectares in 1996 to 14,759 hectares in 2016. Guy Cezil, an engineer-agronomist with the Marbial’s Sons and Friends Association (AFAM), is spearheading an ecosystem-based adaptation project in the Nippes department, aimed at protecting coastal and marine biodiversity while bolstering the resilience of local ecosystems. Cezil emphasizes the dual focus of the project: ecological restoration and improving the livelihoods of local farmers and fishermen. He notes that the socio-economic vulnerability of these communities necessitates long-term economic support, as they rely heavily on natural resources. The initiative seeks to integrate green and blue economy principles, promoting sustainable agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. Funding for these efforts has been bolstered by the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, which has supported Ecosystem-Based Adaptation strategies since 2020. Cezil's passion for agriculture stems from his upbringing on a farm in Marbial, where he learned the importance of sustainable practices. His academic background in natural resource management has equipped him to address the challenges posed by climate change. Meanwhile, researchers like Ramírez-Ruiz are exploring the impacts of urbanization on mangrove ecosystems, highlighting the need for a comprehensive understanding of how human activities influence biodiversity and landscape changes in the Caribbean.