Mangrove forests are among the most important ecosystems on Earth. Like a green belt, they protect the shallow coasts of the tropical and subtropical regions between 30° latitude north and south. They act as a natural protection against storms and tides, safeguarding coastal strips, settlements, and agricultural areas from climate-related damage. At the same time, their root systems provide a biodiverse habitat for numerous fish, mollusk, and crustacean species.
Mangroves are also a key factor in climate protection as they store more carbon than any other type of forest – up to 1,000 tonnes of CO₂ per hectare – and safeguard the livelihoods of millions of people in coastal regions.
Since 2004, Mercedes-Benz has been supporting the Global Nature Fund in protecting and restoring tropical mangrove ecosystems in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Indonesia.