Local tourists’ perception towards mangrove forest conservation and regeneration in the Guang-guang Mangrove Park and Nursery, Davao Oriental, Philippines
Meriam G. Inoco | Jhonnel P. Villegas
Discipline: environmental sciences
Abstract:
Mangroves are crucial for preserving and safeguarding coastal communities and
the ecosystems along the shore. This study focused on determining the perception of local
tourists towards the importance of current efforts and initiatives for mangrove forest
conservation and regeneration in Guang-Guang, Dahican, City of Mati, Davao Oriental,
Philippines. Using in-depth interviews with ten local tourists, major themes relating
to the difficulties facing conservation and regeneration programs, as well as the ecosystem
services and functions of mangrove forests, were investigated. The local tourists
perceived that mangroves operate as storm barriers, prevent coastal erosion, and serve
as essential habitats for aquatic organisms. However, anthropogenic activities like the
establishment of shrimp ponds, plastic pollution, land reclamation, and illegal logging
were documented to threaten the mangrove forests. The study also highlighted the
government’s efforts to implement regeneration programs and engage local communities
and stakeholders in tree planting and coastal clean-up activities. The significance of
mangrove forest conservation and regeneration was underscored, considering their
roles in providing habitats, protecting coastlines, promoting biodiversity, and supporting
livelihoods. The implications of the study emphasized the need to raise public
awareness, improve environmental education, involve communities indecision-making,
and implement regenerative conservation initiatives.
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ISSN 2984-7125 (Online)
ISSN 2244-4432 (Print)