A bold new project in India is aiming to hire one hundred thousand people to heal coastlines and safeguard wildlife threatened by plastic waste and unchecked development.

Stretching across the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, this effort is backed by the World Bank and focuses on restoring fragile marine environments while giving local residents meaningful work. Mangroves will be replanted. Sand dunes will be rebuilt. Coral reefs, turtle nesting sites, birds, and dugongs will all get a bit more protection.

The plan pairs environmental goals with jobs in tourism, waste management, community outreach, and more. It hopes to weave in public awareness campaigns to curb plastic pollution and promote recycling. Local governments and private sectors will need to collaborate to make solid waste systems stronger in cities near the coast.

Over two hundred fifty million people depend on coastal zones for fishing, transport, tourism, and daily life. This initiative shows that we do not have to choose between nature and livelihoods. When done right, restoring ecosystems can restore hope and opportunity for people and planet alike.