AWARD-WINNING Connected Mangroves project in Kampung Dato Hormat is now being featured as part of a BBC series called Age of Change: The Business of Survival.
The ‘Age of Change’ series on BBC shares aspirational stories of how businesses are addressing environmental challenges and repairing vulnerable ecosystems with innovative solutions.
Mangroves are a vital part of Malaysia’s ecosystem. They protect villages near coastlines and riverbanks from environmental risks.
Mangroves are also one of the most effective trees in the world for soaking up the carbon dioxide that leads to climate change. They can hold up to five times more carbon per hectare than tropical rainforests.
The Connected Mangroves project was started by leading 5G networks provider Ericsson in 2015. Together with partner volunteers, they have planted more than 4,000 trees.
They also harnessed the power of mobile broadband, the internet of things (IoT) and the cloud to help increase the survival rate of the mangrove saplings from 40% to 80%.
The community of Kampung Dato Hormat, situated in Sabak Bernam, Selangor, where the project is located, have noticed positive bioindicators. They were the presence of more crabs, and an increase in fish catch, as well as less wildlife intrusion into their village.
The mangroves have also created a protective barrier that shields them from flooding.
Sonia Aplin, head of sustainability and corporate responsibility, Ericsson South East Asia, Oceania and India, says, “Projects like these demonstrate how information and communication technologies can help combat climate change.
At Ericsson, we’re committed to improving lives and pioneering a sustainable future with the use of technology. Our Connected Mangroves project in Malaysia is a live example of this commitment.”
The BBC documentary on the Connected Mangroves project is available for viewing online now on BBC Age of Change here and on Ericsson’s website. – The Vibes, November 15, 2022
