What We Do

Our Framework

The RECA Model

MFI's integrated approach to mangrove conservation and community development operates across four interconnected pillars.

Restore

Mangrove and lake restoration, agroforestry carbon credit projects, bamboo plantation across Pan-India using community-based ecological approaches.

Educate

Climate education, career guidance, WaSH awareness and life-skills programs reaching 25,000+ students across 50+ schools and colleges.

Coact

Working with governments, universities, NGOs, and corporates toward shared conservation goals — 100+ NGOs, 10+ universities, multiple govt. departments.

Advocate

Mobilizing communities to protect ecosystems and work with government institutions for sustainable coastal zone management and policy change.

Mangrove Restoration Sites

Thangal Perumbulam — Flagship CBEMR Site

MFI's flagship Community-Based Ecological Mangrove Restoration (CBEMR) work has transformed the Thangal Perumbulam site from 2007 to 2025. Satellite imagery shows dramatic change — from barren tidal flats to self-sustaining mangrove forests covering the Pulicat Lake coastline.

Thangal Perumbulam Mangrove Restoration 2007-2025

Thangal Perumbulam — Mangrove Restoration Site (2007–2025)

Thangal Perumbulam site including Buckingham Canals

Thangal Perumbulam including Buckingham Canals (2010–2025)

Senganimedu Mangrove Restoration 2009-2025

Senganimedu — Mangrove Restoration Site (2009–2025)

Pulicat Light House — Mangrove Site (2008–2025)

Restoration Sites

Native Species

350+

Canals Developed

18 yrs

Of Restoration

All Programs

MFI's Integrated Program Areas

🌿 Mangrove Restoration (CBEMR)

Community-Based Ecological Mangrove Restoration at Pulicat Lake — tidal hydrology restoration, invasive species removal, native species nurseries, canal creation, and long-term community monitoring across 11 sites.

🌿 Bamboo Plantation

A million bamboo initiative across 1,700+ hectares benefiting 4,200+ farmers with income opportunities, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity restoration Pan-India.

🌏 Agroforestry Carbon Credits

Registered carbon credit projects (P. IDs: 3560, 3572, 6101, 6111) covering 2,600+ hectares across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka — 6,000+ farmers benefiting since 2018.

🌫 Lake Rejuvenation

Eco-restoration of Ottentangal Lake (2024–2026) and Vadakal Lake (2025–2027) in Sriperumbudur with Yamaha India — improving water storage, groundwater recharge, and biodiversity.

🏫 Environmental Education

Biodiversity awareness sessions, field visits, and climate education across 50+ schools and colleges in Tamil Nadu — WaSH programs, career guidance, and life-skills training for coastal youth.

🤝 Livelihood Support

SHG formation and capacity building for fishing communities — crab fattening, palm-leaf handicrafts, tailoring, and other alternative livelihoods for women and fisherfolk at Pulicat.

🌎 Beach & Coastal Cleaning

Regular coastal and beach cleanup events along Pulicat Lake and Chennai coastline mobilising student volunteers, corporate teams, and fishing community members.

🏠 Child Resource Centres

Community-based child resource centres providing education support, skill development, and nutritional guidance to children of fishing communities around Pulicat Lake.