Mangrove Afforestation Project Vol.4 (Aired on February 28, 2025) ~ Asking the Mangrove Doctor About the Amazing Benefits of Afforestation

"Weekly Kurashiki Happy Radio" airs every Friday from 3 PM to 7 PM.

In the segment called "Mangrove Afforestation Project", the program's MC, Charlie Otani, actually visits the Philippines to report on the local mangroves and the afforestation efforts.

With the cooperation of kanepackage Inc., and under the guidance of the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources, FM Kurashiki has started activities to plant mangroves!

This article introduces the 4th Mangrove Afforestation Project broadcast on February 28, 2025.

This article is a contributed piece by FM Kurashiki. It has been edited and published by the Haretoco General Incorporated Association editorial team.

Mangrove Afforestation Project

The Mangrove Afforestation Project that FM Kurashiki is working on.

To prevent the reduction of mangroves, which play an important role in protecting coastlines and maintaining ecosystems, we are collaborating with kanepackage Inc. (hereinafter referred to as "kanepackage").

We interviewed Mr. Abner, a mangrove expert who conducts research on the vast mangrove forests on Olango Island in the Philippines.

While relying on the translation by Japanese staff member Mr. Onodera, we listened to Mr. Abner's talk, revealing the unknown ecology of mangroves and the benefits they provide to us.

Mr. Onodera (center of the photo), Mr. Abner (right side of the photo)

How much stress do mangroves experience from tidal changes?

Mr. Abner previously conducted research on mangroves at Saitama University. He mentioned that during his university days, he studied the theme of "the relationship between mangroves and environmental stress."

What Mr. Abner particularly focused on was, "How much stress do mangroves experience due to tidal changes?"

Mr. Abner (translated by Mr. Onodera)

There are different types of mangroves, and particularly in Cebu, the species "Rhizophora" is abundant. Research conducted on this species revealed that prolonged submersion in water causes significant stress to mangroves. Rhizophora is particularly sensitive to saltwater, and if submerged for more than 8 hours, it dies at the planting site.

Based on such research findings, it is said that choosing locations that do not remain submerged for long periods is extremely important when planting mangroves. Mangroves planted in appropriate locations with a good balance of tidal changes have higher survival rates and grow into 10-year-old trees.

The benefits of afforestation according to Dr. Mangrove

When I asked Mr. Abner, who has been researching mangroves for many years, about the benefits of mangrove afforestation, he shared three major effects.

Mr. Abner (translated by Mr. Onodera)

First, there is a role in protecting against strong winds like typhoons. In regions like the Philippines, which experience many typhoons, dense mangrove forests help prevent disaster damage.

Next, the roots of mangroves provide a safe place for small marine organisms. Under the roots of mangroves, small fish, crabs, and shrimp find the only place to hide from predators. Without mangroves, the survival rate of small creatures decreases, making mangroves essential for nurturing rich marine resources.

Furthermore, recent studies have shown that mangroves absorb more than five times the carbon dioxide compared to other trees. Planting mangroves is expected to have a purifying effect on the air.

Mr. Onodera informed me that, "Although it is rare now, there are regions that utilize mangrove roots as medicine."

For local people, mangroves are a close part of their lives.

Next, we will head to the place on Olango Island where mangroves were first planted!

Conclusion

FM Kurashiki participates in the United Nations' policy of "SDG Media Compact", clarifying the connections between the programs it broadcasts and the 17 goals set by the SDGs, and is committed to promoting sustainable development goals.

The Mangrove Afforestation Project is also a program based on the SDG Media Compact and is still ongoing.

For guests of "Weekly Kurashiki Happy Radio" who arrive by car, one tree will be planted for each vehicle.

Additionally, if you purchase a can badge for 500 yen each, one tree will be planted for each badge. As of February 2025, 80 badges have been purchased!

We will continue to deliver useful information to the local community.