Why Mangroves Are On The Frontline In The Fight Against Climate Change

InnovationSustainabilityWhy Mangroves Are On The Frontline In The Fight Against Climate ChangeByJamie Hailstone,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Jamie Hailstone is a U.K-based reporter, who covers sustainability. Follow AuthorJun 03, 2026, 09:11am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 25: Mangrove shoots grow in the shallows of the Mossman River, Daintree, Australia. (Photo by Tim Graham/Getty Images)Tim Graham/Getty ImagesMangrove swamps have a multi-faceted role, when it comes to the Earth’s eco-system, but they are also not immune to the impacts of climate change.They can play a central role as wildlife havens, carbon stores, storm defences, and ocean purifiers.But recent reports have highlighted how they could be impacted by rising temperatures and the other roles they play in maintaining the planet. A new study by researchers, led by the University of Exeter with partners in Colombia and the U.S, claims sea-level rises will initially trigger more carbon accumulation in some locations, but will reduce carbon storage in the forests over the long term. Previous research has suggested rising seas could increase carbon storage in mangroves, but the new study challenges this.Mangroves are made up of salt-tolerant plants, which grow in coastal areas. They cover less than 1% of Earth’s surface but store about 15% of all ocean carbon, most of it in their soils. The findings show that, while carbon storage might increase in localised spots as sea levels rise, storage at the scale of whole forests is likely to decline over the next 100 years.Dr. Arya Iwantoro, who carried out the research at the University of Exeter, but is now based at the University of Plymouth, said mangrove forests are crucial for slowing climate change, in a statement. MORE FOR YOUDr. Iwantoro added research about carbon storage in mangroves is usua...