5 MIN READ
4-22-2024
Changing the World,
One Mangrove at a Time
Henry Bliss, 4ocean Story Producer
Why Mangroves?
Mangroves are coastal ecosystems found in tropical and subtropical regions, characterized by trees and shrubs adapted to survive in muddy, salty, and brackish water.
Their specialized root systems provide stability and enable them to thrive in dynamic coastal environments, while adaptation to high salt levels makes them resilient to their habitat.
These ecosystems play crucial ecological roles; serving as nurseries for marine species, protecting coastlines, filtering pollutants, and sequestering carbon.
Mangroves provide resources and cultural value to local communities, making them vital for environmental health and human well-being.
Who is MANG?
MANG is one of the leading mangrove restoration companies in the world. To date, they have collectively planted over 625,000 mangroves and are steadfast in their commitment to continue this vital work.
Since 2015, MANG has grown each mangrove by hand for all of their Florida projects. They had to cultivate their mangroves and water them with salt water for at least two years before planting them in the wild. Growing mangroves in this manner significantly increases their chances of survival.
In 2018, MANG expanded its
restoration efforts internationally, aiming to effect positive change along coastlines
worldwide that are affected by deforestation and pollution.
Their efforts are not just a measure of progress, but a growing testament to the positive impact they can have on the environment.
Meet the Brothers!
MANG was founded by brothers Keith and Kyle Rossin. MANG sprouted from a simple yet profound desire to protect the environments and fisheries that nurture us.
“Mangroves are not only beautiful; they are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and protecting coastalareas. Yet, they are among the most threatened habitats in the world”.
“Sniff a Leaf”
"Sniff a Leaf," a phrase coined by MANG’s co-founder, Keith Rossin, encapsulates their ethos.
Keith frequently encourages all of us to disconnect from digital distractions and engage with the natural world around us.
It's more than just a whimsical invitation—it's a call to reconnect with nature, to ground ourselves in the environment that sustains us.
So, have you sniffed a leaflately?
How does plastic pollution impact Mangroves?
Plastic pollution can have cascading effects on mangrove ecosystems, impacting their structure, function, and biodiversity.
Mangroves can act as traps for floating plastic debris, which can become entangled in their roots or wash up onto their shores. This accumulation of plastic can inhibit the growth of mangrove seedlings, disrupt nutrient cycling, and alter sediment composition, ultimately affecting the ecosystem's overall health.
Plastic debris can also leach harmful chemicals into the surrounding water, potentially harming mangrove plants and the animals that rely on them.
Plastic pollution can pose risks to wildlife that inhabit mangrove ecosystems, as animals may ingest or become entangled in plastic debris, leading to injury or death.
Clean the Ocean, Plant our Future
By purchasing a bracelet or shirt from the 4ocean x MANG Coastal Restoration Collection, you will remove 5 pounds of trash from the ocean and plant one mangrove along our coastlines!
Each bracelet is handcrafted in Bali by a local artisan using cord made from 100% recycled ocean plastic. Our artisans decided to add a single recycled glass bead to represent the one mangrove planted in your honor.
Every UPF 50+ MANG performance shirt carries the Skin Cancer Foundation seal of approval - which means you’ll be protected from UV rays while also helping to restore our coastlines.