PROJECTS
Mangres
The MangRes project, supported by donors such as UNESCO, the Government of Flanders and Coralina, focuses on the restoration and conservation of mangroves in the archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina, Seaflower Biosphere Reserve. Mangroves are essential coastal ecosystems for the protection of communities from the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and storms. However, these ecosystems have been severely affected by human activity and natural phenomena, such as hurricanes.
Through the MangRes project, we work on the participatory restoration of these areas, involving local communities, who are the guardians of these ecosystems. The objective is to ensure coastal resilience by restoring biodiversity in mangroves and promoting sustainable practices that reduce pressure on these spaces.
A key part of the project has been the installation of piezometers in each restored mangrove (Providencia: Jones Point, Santa Catalina, Mancineel Bay; San Andrés: Dorna Pond, Cove Sea Side and Smith Channel). These devices allow monitoring of groundwater levels, salinity and ecosystem health, providing valuable data to effectively adjust restoration strategies. This technology facilitates constant and scientific monitoring, ensuring that recovery efforts are carried out sustainably and that mangroves can adapt to changing environmental conditions.
As part of this process, a Mangrove Conservation Agreement was signed with the Jones Point Community Action Board, formalizing the community's commitment to the protection and restoration of these ecosystems. This agreement directly involves residents and community leaders in conservation, promoting shared responsibility and active participation. In addition, an app was created for participatory monitoring of this process.
