One month may not be a short period for students from Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) to study various aspects of “Sustainable Development City” in Indonesia. After receiving several materials on “Sustainable Activities” and participating in discussions with students from the Faculty of Science and Technology at Universitas Airlangga, LJMU students took action to demonstrate their environmental concern. As part of the series of activities, LJMU students participated in the International Community Services in collaboration with Petronas and the Environmental Engineering Student Association (HMTL) of Universitas Airlangga. This activity, titled “Mangrove for Sustainable Coastal Environment,” took place at the Gunung Anyar Mangrove Botanical Garden on Thursday, July 4, 2024.
At the 34-hectare botanical garden, LJMU students were invited to explore the jogging track that offers beautiful views and a cool atmosphere. The botanical garden, which houses 57 species of mangroves and various types of fauna, is one of Surabaya’s efforts to address climate change and protect both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. In line with the goals of SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) 13, 14, and 15, the Surabaya City Government, together with BRIN (National Research and Innovation Agency), is working to make the Gunung Anyar Mangrove Botanical Garden a center for conservation, education, and recreation. After touring the jogging track, LJMU students were headed to the pond area, which served as the location for planting the mangroves. Along with UNAIR’s FST Ambassadors and the Environmental Engineering Student Association, LJMU students had a new and enjoyable experience. Accompanied by local farmers, they planted 1,000 mangrove seedlings. One by one, the seedlings were inserted into the ground and tied to bamboo poles that had been prepared. Despite the sticky and deep soil in the planting area, they enjoyed the planting session and were happy to participate. “This is my first time doing something like this, and it’s very fun,” said Lily.
The river mouth was their next destination. Riding a simple motorboat, LJMU students were invited to enjoy the fresh sea breeze in the late afternoon. Along the journey, they could see various types of mangroves along the riverbanks. Several animals also made an appearance, shyly greeting them. From long-tailed macaques chasing each other and hanging from trees, to mudskippers emerging from the mud, and monitor lizards swimming slowly along the river’s edge. The boat continued toward the coast until they could see Madura Island in the distance.
Every small step we take can contribute to addressing environmental issues affecting our planet. One such example is by taking action to contribute to the environment, as demonstrated by FST UNAIR in collaboration with LJMU students. This mangrove planting and river exploration activity is expected to increase students’ awareness and encourage them to play a role in preserving biodiversity both in the sea and on land, which supports the achievement of SDGs 14 and 15.
