OneEarth Press Release
OneEarth Foundation Launches Mangrove Odyssey to Protect Goa’s Mangroves
Panaji, Goa, October 2024: OneEarth Foundation (OEF), a leading non-profit organization committed to environmental sustainability, is pleased to announce the launch of its flagship campaign, Mangrove Odyssey. This month-long initiative aims to conserve and promote appreciation for Goa’s invaluable mangrove ecosystems through educational, cultural, and hands-on activities. The campaign seeks to engage communities, tourists, and stakeholders, fostering a deeper understanding of mangrove preservation. It will culminate in a grand Mangrove Festival on October 26, 2024.
Goa’s mangrove forests, primarily found along the Zuari, Mandovi, and Terekhol rivers, are among India’s most precious natural resources. However, they face significant threats from urbanization, pollution, and unsustainable tourism, putting both the mangroves and dependent communities at risk. Urgent conservation and restoration efforts are necessary to safeguard this natural heritage.
Ferdin Sylvester, Co-Founder and Director of OneEarth Foundation, remarked, “Mangroves are not just trees; they are vital to our coastal ecosystems and support the livelihoods of communities. These ecosystems serve as natural barriers against coastal erosion and extreme weather events, playing a crucial role in protecting our shores. By conserving and restoring mangroves, we are investing in the health of our environment and the future of our communities. The Mangrove Odyssey offers an excellent opportunity for everyone to learn about these ecosystems and participate in their protection. Together, we can create a sustainable future that prioritizes the preservation of our natural heritage.”
Pirojsha Godrej Foundation is the campaign’s Sustainability Partner. Nyrika Holkar, Executive Director, Godrej Enterprises Group said, “The Mangrove Odyssey is an exemplary initiative by OneEarth Foundation, to heighten awareness about Goa’s rich mangrove ecosystems through community engagement and highlight the vital role it plays in sustaining biodiversity and protecting coastal communities. We are proud to support this program that is closely aligned with our commitment to environmental stewardship as well as ensuring harmony between development and nature. Campaigns like this remind us that conserving our natural heritage is not just a responsibility but a shared journey for our sustainable future and future generations.”
The Godrej mangroves in Mumbai are one of the largest privately owned mangrove forest in India. Godrej Enterprises Group has been supporting the conservation of this mangrove ecosystem close to 4 decades through research, conservation and awareness initiatives.
Key highlights of the campaign include guided trails exploring Goa’s mangrove marvels, which began on October 6 and continue every Saturday and Sunday until October 20. Participants can explore renowned locations like the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Divar Islands, with expert-led tours providing insights into the unique flora and fauna of these ecosystems. Additionally, nature classrooms are tailored for school and college students, offering experiential learning through visits to mangrove forests. Curated materials known as Mangrove Classrooms will reinforce this learning after the workshops, helping students understand the vital role mangroves play in coastal ecosystems.
Reconnect with nature and experience the rejuvenating power of music in a serene setting led by Anal Jha, a seasoned musician with expertise in a variety of instruments, on the 20th of October. As part of the ‘Mangrove Musicana’ initiative, Anal will conduct a special event featuring the calming sounds of bamboo flutes, didgeridoos, handpans, and other sound healing instruments. Set amidst the mystical mangrove ecosystem, this event provides a tranquil escape from everyday noise.
Another key highlight of the campaign is a culinary workshop on October 24, where Chef Michael will demonstrate how to blend traditional Goan flavors with sustainably sourced mangrove ingredients at The Goa College of Hospitality and Culinary Education. Participants will learn about these unique ingredients, their role in Goan cuisine, and how to preserve traditional recipes while raising awareness about protecting mangrove ecosystems through food.
The inaugural Mangrove Festival on October 26 will include a cooking demonstration by Chef Michael Swamy, highlighting the edible aspects of mangroves and their ecological importance. Local communities, tourists, and chefs will enjoy a day of cooking, tasting, and learning about mangroves and the life it hosts. The festival will also unveil a coffee table book featuring the top 12 photos from the MangrovesThrough My Lens competition, with winning entries selected by a distinguished jury. The festival will also feature an award ceremony, expert panel discussions, art and photography exhibits, a mangrove-inspired art installation, interactive sessions, and food stalls featuring mangrove-inspired cuisine, creating a rich, immersive experience.
OneEarth Foundation has received support from esteemed organizations for its Mangrove Odyssey campaign. The Pirojsha Godrej Foundation is a Sustainability Partner, while BLive contributes as the Sustainable Adventure Partner. The campaign also benefits from the expertise of the Mangrove Society of India, St. Joseph Vaz College, and the Centre for Environment Education as Knowledge Partners, with Sadhana Dell’ Arte and Unbox as the Venue Partner . These collaborations aim to promote the conservation of Goa’s mangrove ecosystems.
OneEarth Foundation is a dedicated environmental organization focused on implementing nature-based solutions to address pressing ecological challenges. Our work is rooted in the belief that sustainable ecosystems are essential for the well-being of both nature and humanity. OneEarth has spearheaded numerous initiatives in coastal and marine conservation, sustainable tourism, waste management, and community engagement. Our holistic approach integrates scientific research, community participation, and policy advocacy to create lasting environmental impact.
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