DP World launches Mangroves initiative to conserve coastal ecosystems in Cochin
DP World, a leading global provider of smart end-to-end supply chain solutions, has announced the launch of its Mangroves initiative in Ernakulam in association with Plan@Earth, a non-profit operating in the field of environmental conservation in Cochin. The project will cover a total of 50 acres of mangrove plantation and conservation area spread across 4 panchayats including Pallipuram, Kuzhipilly, Kadamakudy, and Narakkal, in Vypin, Ernakulam. These areas have been selected specifically, based on scientific studies in the indigenous communities. The project is in line with DP World’s sustainability framework of Our World, Our Future, within which oceans are one of the legacy focus areas in response to SDG 14: Life Below Water.
Through the “Mangroves initiative in Ernakulam”, DP World plans to boost Cochin’s coastal ecosystems which are vital for the communities’ growth and prosperity. Mangroves have long been known for their critical role in combating climate change, offering one of the highest rates of carbon sequestration per hectare, and serving as vital buffers against coastal erosion and rising sea levels. In line with this, DP World will plant approximately 100,000 mangrove saplings in Kerala’s port city over the next three years, ensuring their long-term maintenance and survival. The company will foster community engagement in this project by implementing a shared community-oriented program. This approach will ensure a cooperative effort towards the care and maintenance of the planted mangroves.
The “Mangroves initiative in Ernakulam” by DP World was launched in the august presence of Mr KN Unnikrishnan, MLA of Kerala, Vypin, along with Mr Dipin Kayyath, Senior Director - Operations & Engineering, DP World Ports & Terminals, Cochin.
Speaking about this initiative, Mr Praveen Joseph, CEO - DP World Ports & Terminals, Cochin, said, “Mangroves play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, protecting coastlines, and supporting biodiversity. Recognizing their immense value as natural bio-shields, the government has undertaken significant efforts to conserve and expand mangrove forests. Our mangroves initiative in Ernakulam aligns with these crucial efforts of the government and reflects our commitment to fostering a more resilient, sustainable future for the communities we serve. By engaging local communities, we aim to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the vital coastal ecosystems and their role in safeguarding the environment.”
DP World’s commitment to mangrove restoration extends beyond India.
The company is actively engaged in restoration projects around the world. For example, in Posorja’s Puná Island through the Sowing Life programme, DP World has partnered with the CALISUR Foundation to re-populate 105 hectares of wetlands with 218,000 seedlings already planted and a plan to sow a further 32,000 seedlings by 2024.
In 2023, DP World partnered with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and became a member of the Mangrove Alliance for Climate initiative. The company will extend support to the recently launched Mangrove Breakthrough global initiative by UNGC. The global logistics company is committed to working to restore mangroves around the world in the areas where it operates – using a science and nature-based solutions in line with international frameworks and best practices.
Since its inception, DP World has conducted business operations in an eco-conscious way, assessing the impact on the environment and monitoring the waters in which they operate by using the latest technologies. The Mangrove conservation endeavour by DP World reinforces its commitment to sustainability and preservation of vital coastal ecosystems in Cochin and beyond, emphasised a release.
Source: Exim News Service: Cochin, Sept. 30