Climate Change Resilience in South China: A Perspective from Mangrove Ecosystems

Abstract

This study examines climate change impacts and adaptation strategies in South China's coastal zones, focusing on mangrove ecosystems. Analysis of updated temperature, sea-level, and mangrove coverage data identifies significant long-term warming, with Guangdong’s annual average temperature rising at a rate of 0.21 °C per decade since 1961. Sea level in the South China Sea exhibited a distinct rising trend from 1993 to 2019; coastal areas recorded rising rates above 3.00 mm/a, peaking at 5.00 mm/a off eastern Vietnam. Mangrove area increased by 51% from 2000 to 2020 following large-scale restoration efforts, reversing previous decades of loss. Results highlight the critical role of mangroves in coastal protection through wave dissipation and carbon sequestration. Recommendations include integrating ecological red lines with hybrid infrastructure to enhance resilience. Based on the latest observational datasets, the findings provide scientific support for evidence-based policy formulation to achieve sustainable coastal management