Dutch firm to design mangrove-based coastal defense project

The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and Guyana’s National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) have engaged Dutch engineering firm Haskoning to design a coastal “green-grey” infrastructure project aimed at protecting eroded shoreline in Dantzig and De Hoop, Region Five.

The initiative combines nature-based solutions such as mangroves and seagrasses with engineered sea defenses like seawalls and concrete dams. The project will restore about 120 hectares of shoreline in Mahaica-Berbice and is funded by the Korea Forest Service under Guyana’s Coastal Resilience and Mangrove Restoration Project, a release said.

Haskoning, supported by Dutch research institute Deltares and local firm SRKN’gineering, will provide engineering design and technical services. Once completed, the project is expected to benefit 500 residents, safeguard 1,000 hectares of farmland from sea level rise, and reduce an estimated 1.12 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions over 25 years.

“Mangroves are not just trees, they are natural coastal defense systems, carbon sinks, and nurseries for marine life. Losing them means losing protection for our communities, biodiversity, and livelihoods,” said Kene Mosely, NAREI Coordinator of the Mangrove Department. “At NAREI, we have successfully combined innovative green-grey solutions with targeted mangrove restoration to rebuild coastal resilience. By integrating world-class technical expertise from Haskoning, Deltares, and SRKN’gineering with our local experience, this project is expected to deliver interventions that enhance coastal protection for vulnerable communities,” Mosely added.

Daniel Munoz-Smith, GGGI’s Caribbean Representative, said “mangroves are critical for preserving biodiversity, supporting coastal livelihoods, and building resilience to climate change.” He added, “this project supports GGGI’s ongoing collaborations to pilot and scale nature-based approaches that can promote green sustainable economic growth. We are honored to partner with NAREI and to support Guyana’s efforts on restoring and protecting these vital ecosystems.”

The project is part of Guyana’s National Mangrove Action Plan 2022–2032 and supports the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030. Field surveys, an induction workshop and stakeholder consultations are planned to align technical scope, methodology and timelines with local communities, government agencies and civil society groups.