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Mangrove protection and community empowerment in Indonesia

By IW:LEARN

July 24^th, 2024

The Arafura and Timor Seas area is rich in wildlife, including mangroves that make up 25% of the world's total, with 45 different types. These mangroves are vital for many sea animals, protect coasts from erosion and climate change, and support the livelihoods of nearby communities, demonstrating the strong connection between human well-being and healthy natural habitats.

The Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action Phase II (ATSEA-2) Project collaborates with various stakeholders to help communities protect this area's nature. Using strategies that care for the environment while aiding coastal communities, it promotes activities like mangrove planting and sustainable fishing to balance human needs with the health of marine life.

The International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, celebrated annually on July 26, aims to raise awareness about the importance of mangrove ecosystems and promote their sustainable management and conservation. Established by UNESCO in 2015, this day highlights the need to protect mangroves in countries like Indonesia within the ATS region for a healthier environment and a better future for coastal communities.

Exploring Community-led Mangrove Conservation in Daiama Village

Back in June 2023, the ATSEA-2 team visited Daiama Village in Rote Ndao District, showcasing the community's strong commitment to environmental sustainability and economic resilience. Led by locals like Novika Tupu (Mama Novi) and Steven Mesah (Om Steven), the visit highlighted the village's innovative mangrove conservation efforts. These initiatives not only aim to protect marine ecosystems but also to improve the livelihoods of the local community through sustainable practices.

Mama Novi leads a group called “Dale Esa,” which initiated the Mangrove Coffee Project to combine traditional skills with conservation methods. This project seeks to diversify the economy and raise the value of mangroves beyond environmental protection. The community believes, "This could change our village's economy and make more people aware of the importance of mangroves," emphasising the project's potential to improve Daiama's economic and ecological landscape.

Mama Novi mentioned that the ATSEA-2 project's training was crucial for uncovering the economic potential of mangroves for their community. They are awaiting certification from the Agency for Drug and Food Control (BPOM), with Mama Novi stating, "Awaiting BPOM certification, we anticipate boosting our community's income," highlighting a strategic approach to economic development.

Mama Novi showcases the mangrove seeds that are soon to be ground into a rich and sustainable coffee blend. Photo: ATSEA-2.

Om Steven leads the "Mulut Seribu" Pokmaswas, focusing on sustainable environmental practices and fighting illegal activities harmful to marine life. He has overseen the planting of over 13,000 mangrove seedlings, demonstrating a deep commitment to the health of the marine ecosystem. Om Steven said, "Government support and targeted training have propelled us into meaningful environmental action," stressing the importance of community involvement in conservation.

Om Steven in Daiama Village, on the land earmarked for new mangrove planting. Photo: ATSEA-2.

The collaboration between Mama Novi and Om Steven exemplifies a model where economic development and environmental conservation work together. Their efforts show how sustainable use of mangroves can contribute to the economy while emphasising the need for environmental protection through community action.

The ATSEA-2 project supports Daiama Village by providing training, facilitating discussions with government bodies, and developing alternative livelihoods, ensuring the sustainability of their conservation efforts. This initiative highlights the importance of empowering communities for a sustainable future by combining conservation with access to essential resources and dialogue, showcasing how community-led actions can achieve sustainable environmental outcomes.

Mangrove seeds ready to be ground. Photo: ATSEA-2.

Revealing the Rich Mangrove Ecosystems on Enu and Karang Islands, Aru Archipelago

Shifting the story exploration from the southernmost point of Indonesia, Rote Ndao, the journey of community engagement and the ATSEA-2 Project's commitment to mangrove conservation continues towards the Aru Archipelago District in Maluku Province, particularly in the Southeast Aru Marine Protected Area (MPA). We are going to see the project's journey and dedication to safeguarding the rich biodiversity of the area, fostering a collaborative spirit among local communities for the stewardship of their natural heritage.

The Southeast Aru MPA is made up of islands like Enu, Karang, Djeh, Maar, Jin, and Jeudin, creating a network rich in biodiversity. These islands are important for their combined environmental roles and their contribution to biodiversity conservation.

Enu and Karang Islands are home to various mangrove species, such as Xylocarpus moluccensis, which grow tall and wide. These mangroves are valuable to the local people, providing materials for fuel, boat building, net preservation, medicine, and more. They also support mud crab populations, offering shelter and food which benefits the communities, especially in Apara Village, where crab fishing is a productive activity. The health of these mangrove ecosystems is important for both nature and the people living near them. Efforts from the ATSEA-2 Project and other groups to monitor and support these areas are key to their ongoing health. The goal is to work together to keep these ecosystems thriving for the long term.

Monitoring Team of Mangrove Ecosystem in Southeast Aru MPA 2023. Photo: ATSEA-2.

Research Expedition in the Southeast Aru MPA

In November 2023, Muh. Adinda Zhadeka Al Gozali from the National Marine Conservation Office (Balai Kawasan Konservasi Perairan Nasional - BKKPN) Kupang led a significant research expedition into the Southeast Aru MPA to study the rich variety of mangroves in the Aru Archipelago, covering a conservation zone of 114,000 hectares. Initially aiming to examine 11 locations, logistical hurdles led to a focus on nine sites. This change did not hinder the team's efforts to investigate the region's distinct challenges, including navigating areas populated by crocodiles and honouring sacred local traditions.

The research team conducted thorough measurements and assessments of the mangroves, evaluating their size, health, and the surrounding environmental conditions such as pollution and water quality. The objective was to monitor the mangroves' condition closely, identifying any potential changes or threats to ensure their protection.

The expedition faced various challenges, from the presence of dangerous crocodiles to the need to respect sacred sites. Despite these obstacles, the team was captivated by the mangroves' beauty and the diverse marine life they sustain. This experience highlighted the crucial role of community education and involvement in conservation efforts. By collaborating with local communities, the aim is to develop more effective conservation strategies to preserve the natural splendour of the Aru Archipelago and address environmental challenges in the future. The expedition underscores the importance of continuous education and community engagement in safeguarding these vital but vulnerable ecosystems, emphasising collaborative efforts to create robust conservation plans for the Aru Archipelago's enduring protection and environmental health.

Mangrove protection and community empowerment in Indonesia

The story of moving from Rote Ndao to the Southeast Aru MPA shows how important it is for local people to lead in protecting nature. Programs like ATSEA-2 have given communities the knowledge and tools they need to look after their environment. This approach proves that the best way to keep natural areas safe is by having the people who live there take care of them. This strategy is key for saving mangroves in the ATS region, which are important both for the variety of life they support and for the well-being of the communities that rely on them.

About the project

ATSEA-2 is the second phase of the Arafura & Timor Seas Ecosystem Action (ATSEA) program; a regional partnership involving the governments of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Timor-Leste, with the support of the Australian Government. Its objective is to collectively manage high marine and fisheries resources in the Arafura and Timor Seas (ATS) region. Since its inception in 2019, the Program has been working to promote sustainable development in the ATS and improve the quality of life of its inhabitants through a combination of restoration, conservation and sustainable management of marine-coastal ecosystems.

The ATSEA-2 Project is committed to safeguarding the livelihoods and prosperity of coastal people in the ATS region, particularly in transboundary areas, through the implementation of sustainable integrated concepts. ATSEA-2 is a Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded program, managed and executed under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA) Resource Facility (PRF) is an implementing partner.

For more information on the ATSEA-2 Project, please contact the Regional Project Manager, Dr Handoko Adi Susanto (hasusanto@pemsea.org), visit the project page on iwlearn.net, or the project website.