Communities, visitors, and stakeholders have been successfully engaged by the flagship campaign, which promoted a better understanding of mangrove preservation. On October 26, a magnificent Mangrove Festival will mark its conclusion. One of India's most valuable natural resources is the mangrove forests of Goa, which are mostly located along the Zuari, Mandovi, and Terekhol rivers. Urbanization, pollution, and unsustainable tourism, however, pose serious threats to them, endangering both the mangroves and the communities that depend on them. To protect this natural heritage, immediate conservation and restoration measures are required.
“Mangroves are not just trees; they are essential to our coastal ecosystems and support the livelihoods of communities,” says Ferdin Sylvester, co-founder and director of One Earth Foundation, further stating that these ecosystems are essential to safeguarding our coastlines because they act as organic barriers against extreme weather and coastal erosion. “Through our festival we want to showcase and bring alive the magic of the mangrove ecosystem by combining mangroves with music, art, food, science and bringing this across to the people,” he said.
Everyone has a great opportunity to learn about these ecosystems and take part in their protection through the Mangrove Odyssey. “By working together, we can build a sustainable future where protecting our natural heritage is our top priority,” he said.
‘The Mangrove Odyssey’ is an excellent initiative by One Earth Foundation to raise awareness about Goa's rich mangrove ecosystems through community engagement and highlight the crucial role it plays in sustaining biodiversity and protecting coastal communities,” stated Nyrika Holkar, member of the sustainability partner for the campaign. This program closely reflects people’s dedication to environmental stewardship and maintaining balance between nature and development. Such campaigns serve as a reminder that protecting one’s natural heritage is a shared journey as well as a responsibility for one’s sustainable future and that of future generations.
The guided trails that explore Goa's mangrove marvels, which started on October 6 and ran every Saturday and Sunday until October 20, have been among the campaign's main highlights. With knowledgeable guides offering insights into the distinctive flora and fauna of these ecosystems, participants had the opportunity to explore well-known sites like the Divar Islands and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Furthermore, nature classrooms were designed with school and college students in mind, providing hands-on learning opportunities through visits to mangrove forests. Following the workshops, student’s understanding of the critical role mangroves play in coastal ecosystems has been strengthened by carefully curated materials known as Mangrove Classrooms.
Bamboo flutes, didgeridoos, handpans, and other sound-healing instruments will be featured in a special event led by Anal Jha, a seasoned musician with proficiency in a range of instruments, as part of the ‘Mangrove Musicana’ initiative. This event offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of daily life, set within the ethereal mangrove ecosystem.
A culinary workshop was held where Chef Michael combined sustainably sourced mangrove ingredients with traditional Goan flavors. Chef Michael Swamy will lead a cooking demonstration at the inaugural Mangrove Festival on October 26 to highlight the edible qualities of mangroves and their ecological significance. A day of cooking, tasting, and learning about mangroves and the life they support will be enjoyed by locals, visitors, and chefs. A coffee table book with the top 12 images from the Mangroves Through My Lens contest—whose winners were chosen by a prestigious jury—will also be unveiled during the festival. In order to create a rich, immersive experience, the festival will also include an award ceremony, expert panel discussions, art and photography exhibits, an art installation inspired by mangroves, interactive sessions, and food stalls serving cuisine inspired by mangroves.
From nature trails for children to mangrove clean-ups and plantation drives, the campaign catered to all ages and interests. Even culinary enthusiasts, budding college students from culinary sciences were invited to participate. Beyond raising awareness, the Mangrove Odyssey has inspired action. The campaign has fostered a sense of community ownership and responsibility towards these vital ecosystems.