Mangrove vulnerability assessment methodology and adaptation prioritisation

Mangroves are vulnerable to climate change impacts such as sea-level rise. Methods for the assessment of vulnerability of mangroves to climate change impacts include initial review of existing information, forest assessment of mangroves, spatial change analysis, ground surface elevations in and behind the mangroves, relative sea level trends, sedimentation rates under mangroves, adjacent ecosystem resilience, climate change projections and compilation of local community knowledge. Results showing high vulnerability in any of these can directly indicate the adaptation actions that are best prioritised. Actions that reduce existing threats include improvement of local management, improving legislation that facilitates mangrove protection and sustained use, establishment of strategic protected areas and rehabilitation of degraded mangrove areas. Direct adaptation actions include selection of "climate-smart" species in rehabilitation and choice of protected areas, management actions to promote sediment accretion in mangroves, and proactive planning for changed conditions. Ongoing monitoring actions can continue to identify future trends.