Networking & Advocacy

MAP acts as a Mangrove Information Clearinghouse and Referral Service, featuring information on issues related to mangrove conservation, shrimp aquaculture, and community-based coastal resource management. The MAP News, MAP's bi-weekly electronic bulletin, and action alerts reach people and organizations worldwide, facilitating networking and advocacy.

Education

MAP’s integrated education activities engage stakeholders and promote their involvement in decision making related to mangrove conservation and restoration issues at community, regional, national, and international scales. MAP tailors its formal and non-formal education methods to the target audience and thematic focus of each program.

Mangrove Conservation and Restoration

MAP's Ecological Mangrove Restoration (EMR) Method is an economical and efficient 6-step approach to mangrove restoration which follows basic natural processes. This well-considered model directly engages local community participation, and has proven extremely successful. As part of post-tsunami recovery, MAP has actively rehabilitated 580 hectares of mangrove forests in Riau and North Sumatera, Indonesia.

In the Hands of the Fishers (IHOF) Workshops

IHOFs facilitate experience sharing and networking, providing a venue for learning about sustainable methods of mangrove conservation and restoration, community-based coastal resource management, and new ways to safely and effectively add to the economic freedom of coastal peoples. Designed to reach and serve NGOs and village leaders from around the globe.

Coastal Community Resource Centers

Where ongoing education and environmental actions can take place, MAP helps support and advise on functioning community resource centers in 9 countries in Asia and Africa. These Centers act as demonstration sites for community-based coastal resource management, as well as education and research centers located in key places, serving as regional “nodes” for global networking.

MAP’s “Toolkit”

Teaching effective ways to utilize mangrove forests and associated ecosystems, the MAP “Toolkit” of sustainable development options aids in non-formal education programs and adds value to natural resources. Some toolkit options include: oyster cultivation, bamboo construction, and fuel-efficient cookstoves.

MAP Children’s Art Calendar

Primary school children from tropical and sub-tropical nations are invited yearly to participate in MAP’s international contest. Selected winners are published in the calendar, which is distributed worldwide. This contest aims to promote appreciation and awareness of mangroves, and to encourage and listen to creative voices of children living in mangrove areas.