Philippines: Mangrove-friendly aquaculture

Abstract

Mangrove areas in the Philippines were once considered vast tracts of wasteland that can be developed into other land uses. The economic "advantages" associated with such exploitation were considered socially "valuable" to human communities. Such advantages and exploitation, however, are now questioned, with the cost to society reevaluated. This paper discusses the factors causing mangrove deforestation with emphasis on aquaculture. Existing and future programs like the government's Coastal Resource Management project for the implementation of mangrove-friendly aquaculture are presented. Research needs and problems affecting mangrove management are likewise discussed.