DESCRIPTION :

Description: The targeted mangrove sites on Mahé and Praslin islands have suffered from a combination of anthropogenic pressures including urban expansion, tourism development, and unsustainable harvesting, and climate-induced stressors such as sea-level rise and increased storm surges. Restoration zones are stratified based on canopy density, species composition, and tidal exposure using a combination of field surveys and LiDAR remote sensing technology. Carbon stock assessments incorporate both aboveground biomass measurements and soil carbon sampling, guided by IPCC and Verra standards. In addition, seasonal GHG flux monitoring using static chamber techniques is conducted to capture methane and CO₂ emissions. The project is highly participatory, integrating local knowledge and capacity building in nursery management, planting, and long-term ecological monitoring. To ensure the project is environmentally and socially sound, several measures have been put in place: Environmental Safeguards: ● Native species only - only local mangrove species are used to protect biodiversity. ● Eco-friendly restoration -tidal channels are restored carefully to avoid harming nearby ecosystems. ● Monitoring - Water quality, plant and animal life, and greenhouse gas emissions (CH₄, N₂O) are regularly checked to track progress and reduce negative impacts. ● Buffer zones - protected areas are established around sensitive habitats to prevent damage. Social Safeguards: ● Community involvement - local people help raise mangrove seedlings and take part in planting and monitoring. ● Public consultations - regular meetings are held to gather input and ensure everyone agrees with the project activities. ● Support for women and youth -the project creates job and training opportunities for women and young people. ● Grievance system - a process is in place for community members to report concerns or complaints. ● Law enforcement - the project works with local authorities to enforce rules protecting mangroves. Baseline for Emissions: ● Baseline Year: 2020 ● Soil Organic Carbon (SOC): 3.4% ● Bulk Density (BD): 1.2 Mg/m³ ● Soil Depth (D): 1 m ● Mangrove Cover at Baseline: 60% of project area ● Estimated Baseline Emissions (ΔC): ΔC(PA) = [0.034 x 1.2 x 1] x 0.60 x 120 ha x 20 = 587 Mg C over 20 years (Equivalent to ~2,152 Mg CO₂-eq assuming continued degradation) Baseline GHG flux measurements included CH₄ and N₂O monitoring during wet and dry seasons. Emissions were notably higher in stagnant water zones, justifying hydrological restoration as a mitigation strategy.