Restoring mangrove forests using bamboo structures

Abstract:

Mangrove vegetation protects coastal areas against flooding and sediment erosion. In spite of their societal and economic value 30% of the mangrove forests worldwide have disappeared over the last 50 years due to human action. Mangrove recovery at degraded sites can be hindered by high waves and coastal erosion. Bamboo structures are thus being used at eroding coastlines to attenuate waves, and create a sheltered environment for mangrove restoration. However, the lack of design rules for the structures has led to mixed rates of success in their implementation. Optimising future designs requires understanding how the bamboo structures affect sea waves and currents. We consequently conducted field measurements to monitor the performance of existing structures in Demak (Indonesia). We also did laboratory experiments with structure prototypes in order to study how we can improve future restoration projects. Transferring the knowledge we gained to the local communities is essential for the success of future implementations. The inhabitants of Demak play a key role to protect and maintain the restoration areas, and any efforts will fail without their support. Sharing our results involves communication challenges due to the language barrier, and due to the differences in the educational background. We consequently illustrated our scientific findings using artistic diagrams. The diagrams can be shared with the local authorities, local fishermen and at schools, to transfer the scientific knowledge in a simple and visual manner. They illustrate why mangroves are important, why the bamboo structures help mangrove colonisation, and how the structures should be built and maintained.