Conservation Seagrass Ecosystems- Safeguarding Food Security and Resilience in Vulnerable Coastal Communities
Project Name : Conservation Seagrass Ecosystems- Safeguarding Food Security and Resilience in Vulnerable Coastal Communities
Protection of Biodiversity
July-September | 2024
Description
Highlights from IKI Project Including Events and Publications
- Drone Photogrammetry Workshops: Between April and August 2024, the OMCAR Foundation successfully conducted three drone photogrammetry workshops focused on mapping seagrass and mangrove ecosystems in the Palk Bay region. These workshops trained university students, researchers, and officials from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department in drone operation, image processing, and spatial analysis using QGIS.
- Seagrass and Dugong Awareness Programs: Educational sessions were held in schools at Mallipattinam, Rajamadam, and Kollukadu, engaging over 100 students to raise awareness of the ecological importance of seagrass ecosystems and dugong conservation. These programs emphasized the role of seagrass in supporting marine biodiversity and local livelihoods.
- Palmyra Handicraft Training: A two-day training program was organized to empower local women by teaching them to create eco-friendly handicrafts from palmyra leaves. This initiative supports local economies by providing alternative livelihoods, while also promoting sustainable resource use.
Collaboration for Blue Carbon Mapping: In line with India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, the project has advanced blue carbon mapping using drone photogrammetry. This initiative contributes to the national goal of enhancing carbon sequestration in coastal ecosystems, supporting both climate action and biodiversity conservation.
Palmyra Workshop of Fisher Women Photos