ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — The Department of the Blue Economy is observing the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem with a series of educational and community activities aimed at raising awareness about the importance of mangroves to Antigua and Barbuda’s environment and economy.

In a message marking the observance on Sunday, the department highlighted the role mangroves play in protecting coastlines from erosion and storm surges, supporting marine biodiversity, storing carbon and strengthening the country’s resilience to climate change.

As part of this year’s activities, the department hosted an interactive mangrove education session with participants in the National Library Summer Camp on July 24. Campers learned about marine biodiversity, coastal protection, pollution prevention and the role mangroves play in improving water quality through educational games and hands-on activities.

The observance will continue on July 27 with a community mangrove mural project led by students of J.T. Ambrose Primary School. The mural will be painted at the Recreation Ground on Independence Drive, opposite the Roman Catholic Church of St. Joseph and St. Patrick, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The department said mangroves are among the world’s most productive yet threatened ecosystems, providing nursery habitats for fish, crabs, lobsters and other marine species while supporting fisheries, tourism and coastal communities.

According to information released by the department, healthy mangrove ecosystems also naturally filter pollutants, improve coastal water quality and reduce the impacts of hurricanes and flooding. Globally, mangroves can store up to four times more carbon than many terrestrial forests and provide habitat for hundreds of species of fish, birds and wildlife.

The Department of the Blue Economy is encouraging the public to participate in conservation efforts by reducing plastic pollution, protecting coastal habitats, joining community clean-ups and sharing information about the importance of mangrove conservation.

“Healthy Mangroves. Healthy Oceans. Stronger Communities,” the department said, urging residents to share their conservation activities in recognition of the international observance.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda Marks International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem.