01. Mangrove degradation in Tien Yen district, Quang Ninh province

Abstract

Changes in mangrove areas and quality in Tien Yen district, Quang Ninh province between 2000 and 2020 were evaluated by using remote sensing and GIS with Landsat data. The study results showed that the total mangrove area in Tien Yen district decreased by 89.4 ha from 2000 to 2020, of which 47.6 ha of mangrove forest were lost in 2010 - 2020. Mangrove quality had also substantially degraded in Tien Yen district, especially in Dong Ngu commune with the highest mangrove degradation rate (46 %). Hai Lang, Dong Hai and Tien Lang communes had mangrove degradation rates of 27.2 %, 23.6 % and 16.5 %, respectively. Dong Rui commune had the lowest mangrove degradation rate (16.2 %). The major reason for the degradation of mangrove areas and quality in Tien Yen district was the conversion of mangroves to aquaculture, agriculture and infrastructure. Hence, comprehensive socio - economic and technological solutions are required to preserve and develop mangrove forests there. Plans for mangrove conservation must be integrated with those for regional socio - economic development.