Mangrove restoration at Bouche du Roy, Benin, to enhance local livelihoods and support conservation

Irsam Soetarto, Ocean Image Bank
Conservation Area of Bouche du Roy, Benin

Conserving mangroves and empowering communities in Benin

Mangroves are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, store carbon, and protect coastal communities. At Bouche du Roy, this project integrates mangrove restoration with efforts to enhance local living standards.

Bouche du Roy, Benin, is home to vital mangrove forests that act as natural carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots. However, deforestation and limited economic opportunities have threatened these ecosystems and local livelihoods. This project seeks to restore mangroves through innovative conservation efforts, promoting sustainable resource use, fostering ecotourism, and uplifting local communities.

Project Info

Location
Conservation Area of Bouche du Roy, Benin
BNC focus
Conservation and restoration of mangrove forests
Funding duration
18 months (2022 – 2024)
Project developer
Project Partner

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How mangrove conservation transforms communities

Sustainable alternatives are essential for long-term prosperity in regions like Bouche du Roy, where communities traditionally rely on fishing and agriculture. This project aims to restore mangroves, crucial for biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and ecosystem services. By promoting environmental education, ecotourism, and sustainable practices, the initiative ensures a healthier environment and resilient local economies.

BCAF’s role in Bouche du Roy mangrove restoration

With the support of the Blue Carbon Accelerator Fund (BCAF), the project is undergoing a detailed feasibility assessment to determine its potential for carbon certification. This critical step lays the foundation for attracting investments and enabling the sale of carbon credits in the voluntary market. These efforts will ensure the project’s long-term sustainability and scalability.

Impacts created

Nature

Mangrove restoration improves biodiversity by creating diverse habitats, reducing pollution through natural filtration, and enhancing water quality. These forests are vital carbon sinks that mitigate climate change, protect coastal ecosystems from erosion, and support global conservation and climate goals.

People

Sustainable mangrove management increases resilience to climate change, provides natural barriers against storms and flooding, and improves living standards for local communities. This project empowers residents by integrating ecotourism, environmental education, and resource protection, creating long-term opportunities.

Business

By facilitating access to the voluntary carbon market, this project strengthens the local economy, attracts investments, and demonstrates the financial value of conservation. A robust management plan ensures investor confidence, fosters sustainable development and establishes a replicable model for balancing business and environmental goals.

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