Green Solutions to Combat Coastal Erosion – The Liane Batatran Project

Coastal erosion is one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing Mauritius. With sandy beaches rapidly retreating due to climate change, human activities, and natural weather events, urgent action is needed to protect these fragile ecosystems. In response, CGC launched the Liane Batatran Project, an innovative nature-based solution aimed at restoring degraded beaches. By using Ipomoea pes-caprae, commonly known as Beach Morning Glory, CGC has successfully stabilised shorelines, enhanced biodiversity, and engaged local communities in sustainable coastal conservation efforts. The project, which was supported by the UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge, with funding from Sida and Norad. focused on five critical sites—St. Felix, Baie du Cap, Baie du Jacotet, Le Morne, and Bel Ombre—where extensive environmental assessments were conducted to determine the best locations for restoration. A total of 19,000 Ipomoea pes-caprae plants including cuttings, seedlings and nursery-grown propagules were propagated and transplanted across 0.22 hectares of beach. The selection of this plant was strategic, as its extensive root system helps anchor sand, preventing erosion while supporting the natural dynamics of coastal ecosystems.

Beyond ecological restoration, community engagement was a core pillar of the project. CGC trained 25 local participants in restoration techniques, site maintenance, and long-term monitoring. The training combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on sessions, empowering participants with skills in planting, organic fertilisation, and ecosystem management. Sustainable practices were prioritised, including the use of biofertilizers made from seaweed and seagrass to enrich the soil without harming marine ecosystems. Adaptive management strategies, such as planting at higher elevations and installing protective fencing, were implemented to counter challenges like extreme weather and disturbances from animals.

The project has demonstrated significant environmental and socio-economic benefits. Monitoring data revealed an 81% plant survivorship rate, with Ipomoea pes-caprae effectively stabilising the sandy substrate. Baseline and monitoring beach profiling surveys were undertaken at the different project sites. Extrapolated data suggest that once fully matured, these plants will help retain over 826 metric tons of sand across the restored sites, significantly reducing coastal erosion. In addition to reinforcing the natural stability of the beaches, the project has contributed to biodiversity conservation, providing vital habitats for coastal flora and fauna.

From a socio-economic perspective, the initiative created part-time employment opportunities for 25 community members, many of whom were previously unemployed or reliant on small-scale fishing. Special attention was given to inclusivity, with women, economically disadvantaged individuals, and marginalised groups being actively involved in the project. Beyond employment, the project strengthened community awareness through outreach programs.

The Liane Batatran Project stands as a testament to the power of nature-based solutions in combating coastal erosion. By integrating ecological restoration with community participation, CGC has successfully developed a sustainable model for shoreline protection. The success of this initiative highlights the importance of leveraging indigenous plant species to reinforce coastal resilience while simultaneously providing economic and educational benefits to local populations. Moving forward, CGC will continue its bi-annual surveys in monitoring of plant survival, sand stabilisation, and biodiversity improvements in order to assess the long-term impact of Ipomoea pes-caprae as a coastal protection mechanism.