Landscape approach to conservation through externally-aided projects
- While the Mangrove Cell had assumed the task of protecting the mangrove forests in the state of Maharashtra, a broader approach was required for conservation of mangroves, the many creeks, mudflats, and other coastal ecosystems like beaches, rocky shores, coral reefs, that supported the rich biodiversity in the region. This, along with the conservation of marine biodiversity, fell under the mandate of the Mangrove Cell, a challenge that we were not prepared for, the Cell lacking in financial resources and manpower.
- Fortunately, the Cell, with the help of the government, was able to receive support from the UNDP-GEF. The UNDP-GEF supported project took on a landscape approach to the conservation of mangroves, and all coastal and marine biodiversity on a pilot basis. This support helped the Mangrove Cell address a wide range of interconnected conservation issues from sustainability of coastal fisheries, conservation of the endangered species, and sustainable livelihood development initiatives.
- The Indo-German project, supported by GIZ, further assisted the Mangrove Cell in taking up mangrove conservation issues particularly in the Thane Creek, one of the biggest creeks in Asia. The project made finance available to carry out necessary studies and biodiversity assessment of the Creek.
- The Mangrove Cell was able to leverage the networks within the government to enter into agreements for the above projects.
- Both projects imbibed a multi-stakeholder approach to conservation. Multi-stakeholder discussions at different levels ensured participation of all relevant sectors from planning to implementation of the projects.
Traditionally, the management of forests was driven mostly through the laws governing the protected areas. These projects, through technical and financial support, made it possible to take on a participatory approach to conservation of biodiversity. This approach has ensured the involvement of other government agencies, and most importantly, the local community, in the conservation of mangroves, coastal and marine biodiversity in the state.