We need mangroves, mangroves do not need us
In response to Mr. Charles Sohan’s letter, dated 11 June, 2021 allow me express my apprehension as regards to annihilation of mangroves. It is while strolling along the Ogle seawall that I discovered recently planted mangroves growing majestically as if the earth was kissing the Atlantic Ocean with pride. The recent addition of coconut trees, was waving its palms to the Ocean with joy. The peace and tranquility was mine while this happened. Besides my poetic expression of mangroves, I would like us to understand the significance of planting and preserving mangroves along the sea front. It is no new knowledge, but timely reminders along with disciplinary measures that destroying mangroves will be of great significance.
The economic development is important but at what cost must be a counter feasibility question. As Guyana hits center stage on the world business market especially through oil and gas production, it is important to self-evaluate on some of the critical matters of concern that every Guyanese must be pondering in their minds. I am not here to harangue on mangrove and its importance but to ask a few fundamental questions. I was appalled to hear that mangroves were destroyed in certain areas. First of all, these mangroves were planted by volunteers and people who want to protect the coastline from land erosion as a natural sea defense. The fact is that everyone is aware of the benefits of mangroves because project mangrove would have ample feasibility studies done with pros and cons being weighted well.
If we focus on economic development at the cost of our mangroves, it is possible that our future generations will have to pay the price especially on the coast. The coastal development is the major cause of destruction of mangroves. If we protect mangroves they will protect us, if not, we will perish as they have been perished. We have to put up with certain uncomfortable situations such as mosquitoes and crustaceans. This situation will prevail even if we did not have mangroves. We might be a little uncomfortable, but rest assured, future generations will have much better lives if we protect the mangroves. Hence, I urge all of us to make efforts to ensure that our mangroves are protected at all cost. We need mangroves, mangroves do not need us.