Mangrove forests are one of the most productive ecosystems, forming valuable nursery grounds for a variety of aquatic organisms in southern Iran as well as supporting local community livelihoods and alleviating impacts of climate change. For this purpose a National Plan has been prepared to expand the mangrove forests, however this plan lacks a participatory approach. This project aims to work closely with key stakeholders and promote a community-based approach to restoration of mangrove ecosystems. Some of the objectives of the project are to document the indigenous knowledge on mangrove forests, use previous community-based experiences from Qeshm Island (GEF/SGP project), participatory collection of seeds and growing of seedlings, identification of the restoration sites with local community participation and conservation. Finally, the project will be identifying additional livelihood options to reduce the pressure on mangrove ecosystems (eg. ecotourism).