Coastal Landscape Management

Coastal areas in West Africa are vulnerable to the effects of Climate Change (extreme weather events and variabilities such as storm surges and tidal changes). Amongst the drivers of vulnerability are very poor levels of awareness by local populations on climate change effects on biodiversity and livelihoods, hence, communities’ unpreparedness for the effects of extreme weather events, human-wildlife conflicts and how to respond and manage them.

An additional driver of vulnerability to climate change effects is linked to loss of biodiversity due to the degradation of mangroves. This is due to unsustainable harvesting of trees for fish-smoking, the development of rice fields in traditional wildlife (Manatee) habitats leading to increased wildlife (Manatee) human conflicts, as Manatees invade rice fields and communities respond by killing them. Some of the Manatees (a CITES-protected species) are killed and parts and products traded, which is against the law.

GREENLIFE WA is involved in:

1. Develop awareness raising and education plans on the importance of biodiversity to livelihoods, CITES species such as manatee, and human-wildlife conflict affecting these critical species
2. Develop best practices manual(s) on the sustainability of coastal resources and climate change management (silviculture, mangrove restoration, Village Savings and Loans and building embankments)
3. Strengthen community level committees for the management and restoration of mangroves
4. Promote coordination and collaboration with stakeholders and partners on sustainable mangrove management