Training on Ecoprint Production Using Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) from Mangroves

Ecoprint is a natural fabric dyeing and printing technique that uses plant materials such as leaves, flowers, bark, and fruit. Each plant contains unique pigments and textures, producing earthy tones such as browns, reds, yellows, and greens. Ecoprint products are distinctive and exclusive, with no two designs being exactly alike. Because ecoprint relies on natural pigments rather than synthetic chemicals, it is an environmentally friendly approach that reduces chemical pollution and supports sustainable production practices.

Mangrove ecosystems provide a variety of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) that can be sustainably harvested and used as natural colouring materials for ecoprint. The use of these NTFPs as natural dyes demonstrates how mangrove resources can be utilized without cutting trees, while maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity.

The uniqueness of ecoprint designs enhances the exclusivity and market value of the products. Demand for ecoprint products continues to increase alongside growing consumer awareness of environmentally friendly and ethically produced goods. This trend creates opportunities for local communities and community groups to generate additional income through sustainable mangrove-based enterprises.

The ecoprint production process also serves as an educational tool, increasing awareness of biodiversity, the ecological functions of mangrove ecosystems, and the importance of sustainable and responsible use of natural resources. Through hands-on learning, participants gain a deeper understanding of how conservation and livelihoods can be integrated.

Blue Forests-ELTI will provide training for local communities and local on ecoprint production, including practical instruction on the sustainable use of mangrove-derived non-timber forest products as alternative sources of natural dyes. The training aims to strengthen community livelihoods while reinforcing the value of mangrove conservation and sustainable resource management.

The training objectives are:

• Build participants’ knowledge and skills in ecoprint production using natural dyes derived from non-timber forest products (NTFPs) from mangrove ecosystems.
• Introduce sustainable harvesting practices for mangrove-based NTFPs, ensuring that plant materials are collected without damaging mangrove ecosystems or compromising their ecological functions.
• Strengthen community livelihood opportunities by developing value-added, marketable ecoprint products with high economic potential.