Alex McColgan

The analysis showed that the peaks of the lunar nodal cycle coincided with the cover of the mangrove canopy.

It showed that when the lunar wobble is at its minimum phase, it causes the mangrove ecosystems to become very dry, which leads to thinner canopy cover.

Yet, when lunar wobble is at its maximum phase, mangrove cover increases.

Mangrove canopies are beneficial to Earth's environment as they are complex ecosystems that fight against climate change, protect wildlife, and shield coastlines.

They can also absorb four times as much carbon dioxide than rainforests of the same size.

Their growth is vital to the welfare of our planet, so it's not all downside.

Still, it's clear that if we don't plan ahead, coastal cities and environments will face a serious crisis.

The all-important question, then, is what can we do about it?

One method is better protection.

As mentioned previously, the protection and restoration of mangroves can act as a shield against flooding, as they can mitigate the vulnerability of communities on the coastlines.

More specifically, mangroves can avert damage by decreasing the height and energy of waves as they pass through mangrove forests.

the above-ground roots and branches diminish the height of the waves, and thus the waves lose energy, ultimately stopping the waves emerging onto the seabed and engulfing the sediments.

The mangroves' roots and branches also reduce wind energy, which can stop the formation of waves.

According to reports, densely packed mangroves can half the height of a wave through just a 100-metre passage.

For comparison,

In an open forest where roots and branches are more sparse, it would take 500 metres for a wave to halve its height.

So, preservation and reforestation of these mangroves, or plants with a similar capability, can become a great shield against upcoming floods.

Another possible solution is to learn how to live with these flood-heavy conditions, working with nature rather than against it.

For example, let's take a look at the flood defences in the Netherlands, where one third of the country is below sea level, and another third is at risk of flooding.

They've built infrastructure that works with water and manages the rising sea levels.