Mangrove Restoration in Zhanjiang: Impact on Small-Scale Fisheries and Aquaculture from a Socioeconomic Lens

Abstract

This study examines how mangrove restoration affects the livelihoods, productivity, and perceptions of small-scale fisheries and aquaculture communities in Zhanjiang, China. Drawing on interviews across villages with restored mangroves, natural mangroves, and no mangroves, the study compares how different ecological contexts shape local experiences. Attitudes toward mangrove conservation were largely mixed or conditional, with stronger support and perceived benefits observed by natural mangrove communities. While many fisherfolk reported minimal impact to productivity, those who worked nearest to dense Sonneratia apetala forests described localized livelihood impacts, including reduced mudflat access and increased aquaculture costs. Conversations revealed a lack of participation, unclear understanding, and resigned acceptance of restoration policies, with a limited sense of socioeconomic and ecological benefit for local communities, particularly around restored non-native mangroves. The findings suggest that the social outcomes of mangrove restoration depend on species choice, planning, and community engagement.