Scientific Expertise and Pilot Mangrove Restoration

Ecuador experienced significant mangrove deforestation between 1970 and 2010, mainly due to the expansion of aquaculture. Despite progress through initiatives like the SocioManglar program and AUSCEM, a large portion of these ecosystems remains unprotected or unrestored. The country boasts exceptional coastal biodiversity but faces increasing pressures: climate change, land use pressures, and a lack of sustainable financing. The emergence of carbon finance and the momentum of the “Ecuador Carbono Cero” program provide an opportunity to explore new tools for sustainable financing.

The project will be implemented by IRD, in close collaboration with MAATE, the final beneficiary. It is structured around two components:

• Conducting a collective scientific assessment of mangrove socio-ecosystems in Ecuador, including an analysis of carbon sequestration potential and associated compensation mechanisms.
• Ecological restoration of two pilot sites (Arenillas in the south and REMACAM in the north), using a methodology co-developed with local stakeholders.

The project aims to provide operational recommendations for national mangrove policy, contribute to the National Action Plan (PAN Manglares), and strengthen the sustainability of the SocioManglar program through carbon finance.

The project is funded by the Blue Carbon Facility with a €450,000 grant from AFD. This funding covers a three-year implementation period (2025–2027), including scientific missions, institutional workshops, fieldwork, and knowledge capitalization. Additional complementary funding may be sought during the project’s implementation (from IRD, bilateral cooperation, or climate funds).

• Strengthening public policies for mangrove restoration.

• Co-creation of knowledge between scientists, civil society, local communities, and public authorities.

• Direct support for the restoration of two priority sites, with monitoring and documentation of results.

• Promotion of the project’s outcomes to inform national strategies and future scaling-up efforts.