The state of Odisha, situated at the eastern coast of India, is highly vulnerable to climate variability and change due to the combination of poverty and high frequency of cyclonic related events. During the past few decades, severe cyclonic storms have disrupted the livelihoods of vulnerable coastal population. Since people’s livelihoods are especially dependent on the region’s rich biodiversity, it is necessary to understand the linkages between eco-systems and human societies in order to identify ways to reduce vulnerability and enhance resilience. These linkages are investigated through a case study of Kendrapada district, Odisha, based on focus group discussions and review of existing studies. The study finds that there are four reasons for the multiple threats on the mangroves: unsustainable economic growth, high population density, sea level rise and change in government policy. However, the study shows that conservation of mangroves can drastically reduce the physical impacts of cyclones and at the same time provide income generating opportunities to coastal communities, hence contributing to both environmental integrity and social equity, or ‘sustainable adaptation’. Important measures to support such adaptation include generating awareness, creating longterm eco-system based employment opportunities, and improving local governance for the management of coastal mangroves.