'MESTI' program promotes aquaculture whilst protecting mangroves

Indonesia, housing a significant portion of the world's mangrove forests, is grappling with mangrove conversion to shrimp ponds. Chevron have established a $2m grant to aid a pilot program, "MESTI," an acronym for an Indonesian phrase meaning “mangroves are friends of sustainable ponds.” The program  promotes sustainable shrimp aquaculture while restoring 50 hectares of mangroves. Collaboration between The Nature Conservancy, Pact, and Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara fosters balanced social, economic, and environmental needs. Mangroves, vital for carbon storage and storm protection, are facing challenges in isolated villages lacking infrastructure. Yet, efforts aim to increase shrimp yields, reduce pond size, and restore mangrove ecosystems, showcase the potential for sustainable aquaculture to benefit communities and biodiversity. (Chevron)