UNESCO chose this day to raise awareness about the mangrove ecosystem and to promote sustainable management and conservation efforts.
Our mangroves are in danger, and the estimation is that more than 3/4 of the mangroves worldwide are at risk, along with the entire ecosystem that depends on them. Mangroves form the connection between land and sea. The roots in saltwater and the land exposed to tides create a rare and fragile system, a refuge for life that we must protect.

Mangroves form a diverse habitat where various species seek shelter, food, and reproduction opportunities. This system is also vital for humans, as mangroves provide protection against coastal erosion and are a food source for many people.

Due to climate change, more efforts are necessary as mangroves are crucial for carbon storage. It is sufficient reason for UNESCO to take the initiative to restore mangroves in seven Latin American countries.  

In addition to creating economic opportunities for the local communities,  this project will promote knowledge sharing between the scientific community and local and indigenous populations. 

Several projects are ongoing in Aruba, and organizations are actively involved in our mangrove protection and restoration. UNESCO Aruba is also making every effort to, together with its partners and through UNESCO’s Geopark, World Heritage Sites (WH), introduce a biosphere reserve (Man and Biosphere label (MAB)) and more marine literature in schools through the Ocean Literacy program.