On the outskirts of Jayapura, Papua, women rely on a unique mangrove forest for food, livelihood and community, but pollution and development are rapidly degrading this vital space.
Edna Tarigan and Firdia Lisnawati report for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Women from Enggros village in Papua have sustainably used their mangrove forest for generations, collecting clams and firewood while preserving traditions.
- Increasing urban development and pollution have drastically reduced the forest's size and biodiversity, threatening their way of life.
- Local women and experts are working to replant mangroves and push for stronger protections to prevent further deforestation and contamination.
Key quote:
“[It’s] a place to find food, a place for women to tell stories, and women are active every day and earn a living every day.””
— Petronela Merauje, Enggros village resident.
Why this matters:
Mangroves are critical ecosystems that protect coastlines and inland communities from storms and flooding and support biodiversity. Losing them endangers cultural practices and livelihoods while increasing vulnerability to environmental hazards like flooding and pollution.
