We reaffirm the importance of conserving and restoring one of the most vital coastal ecosystems. In Pakistan, mangroves are predominantly found in the Indus Delta region of Sindh, which supports one of the largest arid climate mangrove systems in the world. We also have number of sites that are home to some of the rich mangrove ecosystem along the coast of Balochistan.
Mangroves play a critical ecological and socio-economic role. They serve as nursery habitats for marine life, protect coastal settlements from erosion and storm surges, and support the livelihoods of thousands of people engaged in fishing and small-scale resource use. Most notably in today’s context, mangroves are highly effective carbon sinks, which have the capacity to sequester several times more carbon per hectare than many terrestrial forests. Their conservation is therefore essential not only for biodiversity but also for climate resilience.
With sustainable management, the restoration and conservation of mangrove ecosystems offer a promising pathway for generating carbon credits, attracting international climate finance, and creating meaningful livelihood opportunities through green jobs, strengthened local economies, and the promotion of nature based enterprises in coastal communities.
IUCN Pakistan has remained committed to the protection and restoration of mangrove ecosystems. Over the years, in partnership with the Sindh Forest Department and other stakeholders, IUCN has facilitated community-based restoration activities, capacity building, and technical support to strengthen coastal resource management using the approach of Nature-based Solutions.
IUCN Pakistan also helped to formulate the National Coordinating Body (NCB) which comprises of 27 Member organisation including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, provincial government departments, non-traditional partners and civil society organisation. Such forums are available for restoration and upscaling of conservation initiatives.
Only recently, IUCN Pakistan completed a comprehensive nationwide assessment of mangrove forests in Pakistan under the monitoring of the Upscaling Green Pakistan Programme. The study provided updated data on mangrove distribution, condition, and the pressures they face. The report outlines the status of mangrove forests along Pakistan’s coastline, identifying key threats such as freshwater scarcity, pollution, and land-use change, and highlights the role of institutions in their protection and restoration. The assessment goes on to urge the need to further the mangrove conservation agenda in light of heightened climate impacts and reinforces the role of mangroves as vital contributors to fisheries-based livelihoods.
I would like to pay tribute to the late Mr Tahir Qureshi, fondly known as the Mangrove Man or Baba e Mangroves, for his lifelong dedication to the plantation and restoration of mangroves in Pakistan. His passion and commitment left a lasting positive impact on our coastal ecosystems.
As we commemorate World Mangroves Day 2025, IUCN Pakistan urges all stakeholders including the Government, non-traditional partners, local communities, civil society organisations, the private sector, and the media, for coordinated and sustained efforts towards the conservation and restoration of mangrove ecosystems. This day serves as a timely reminder that mangroves are not merely coastal vegetation; they also constitute essential natural infrastructure that builds climate resilience, supports biodiversity, and contributes directly to national priorities.
Together, through knowledge, commitment, and action, we can ensure that mangroves continue to thrive and provide for future generations.
Mahmood Akhtar Cheema
Country Representative
IUCN Pakistan