Page 34 - FAO-IPCC Expert meeting on climate change

Human-directed impacts on food and land-based ecosystems and their implications for food security
Food security in the context of a coastal community is closely related to the sustainability of fish production. Unless ponds or farms receive high inputs, it is unlikely the current supply can be maintained. A new finding in Southeast Asia, which has most of the world’s mangroves, confirms that food production and security are associated with mangrove conversions to aquaculture, oil palm and rice production.
Managing mangrove and other coastal wetland ecosystems, through conservation and rehabilitation, should consider the human dimension vis-à-vis multi-stakeholder objectives and biodiversity. Designing viable alternative livelihoods for the local communities that depend on mangroves for food, income and their livelihoods should be a top priority in any intervention aimed at preserving mangroves and their multiple ecosystem services, including carbon sinks. Working with the local community, embracing their agenda and understanding mangrove hydrology are all key ingredients to the success of mangrove restoration.
FAO-IPCC Expert meeting on climate change, land use and food security