For years, San Sebastian Island's mangrove forests have been overrun by upstream trash, affecting hundreds of families, endangered wildlife (such as American crocodiles, leatherback and hawksbill turtles), and other animals. Local women are teaming up with Asociacion Mangle and Seacology to clean and restore the mangroves. Teams will be trained in cleanups techniques, pollution management, and restoration. Fifteen women will lead multiple cleanups, clear mangrove channels, and restore mangroves.
San Sebastian, a 5,436-acre island in El Salvador, has faced years of severe contamination from the Rio Grande de San Miguel River and the Bay of Jiquilisco, affecting its extensive mangroves. This pollution endangers the islands communities and wildlife, such as American crocodiles, leatherback turtles, and hawksbill turtles. Food sources such as fish, mollusks, and crabs are also impacted due to hydrological changes and pollution, causing mangroves to die from disrupted water flow.
Seacology and Asociacion Mangle are supporting efforts led by local women to spearhead clean ups. Participants will be trained in Ecological Mangrove Restoration (EMR) and equipped with trash collecting tools to begin cleaning. This will support future mangrove conservation efforts as the ecosystem is cleaned. Trash will also be evaluated for its origin to influence preventative measures and future waste mitigation.
By providing tools and education for EMR, women from local communities are able to lead mangrove restoration. This influx of work and education will provide long-term jobs for those maintaining the mangroves. Asociacion Mangle and Seacology will be investing in local women-run businesses, farming, and the local school to support long-term holistic growth for the community. Finally, a local conservation radio station will publicize this project to increase awareness and support.
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