Climate change has had a significant impact on coastal areas, particularly through rising sea levels and increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Mangrove ecosystems, which act as natural coastal protectors, play a crucial role in climate change mitigation due to their ability to absorb and store large amounts of carbon. Recognizing this vital role, the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga (FST UNAIR), continues to initiate various conservation efforts, one of which is the “International Community Services: Mangrove Ecosystem Biodiversity Conservation as an Effort to Combat Climate Change in the Coastal Area of Randuboto Village, Gresik Regency.”
This activity took place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, in the coastal area of Randuboto Village, Sidayu District, Gresik Regency. Participants from various local and international institutions joined forces in this collaborative effort to preserve mangrove ecosystems. This initiative highlights the importance of cross-country collaboration in addressing global challenges related to climate change and coastal ecosystem conservation. Additionally, the program aimed to raise public awareness about environmental sustainability and strengthen cross-sector synergy in nature conservation.
The event commenced with an opening ceremony attended by several key figures, including the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga, the Head of Randuboto Village, and representatives from Petronas. In their remarks, the speakers emphasized the urgency of cross-sector collaboration in tackling climate change and the importance of involving various stakeholders in environmental conservation. Following the opening ceremony, participants boarded boats for a 30-minute journey to the mangrove planting site, where a total of 10,500 mangrove seedlings were planted. This activity was enthusiastically attended by 8 students from FST UNAIR, 12 students from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, as well as lecturers and staff from both universities. Through this collaboration, participants engaged in knowledge exchange and hands-on experience, further reinforcing awareness of mangrove conservation’s importance.
The mangrove planting initiative in Randuboto aimed to restore coastal ecosystems, protect shorelines from erosion, and enhance community resilience against climate change. Mangroves are known to store more carbon per hectare than terrestrial forests, making them an effective solution for climate change mitigation. This initiative also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
This program strengthens the resilience of coastal communities against disasters through the natural protection provided by mangroves.
- Goal 13: Climate Action
Planting and preserving mangroves is a strategic step in mitigating climate change, as mangroves can absorb large amounts of carbon.
- Goal 14: Life Below Water
Mangroves provide crucial habitats for various marine species and are key to sustaining coastal ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
This initiative could not have been successful without collaboration among various stakeholders, including local communities, governments, educational institutions, and the private sector.
The mangrove planting initiative in Randuboto Village serves as a tangible example of how cross-sector collaboration can make a positive impact in the fight against climate change. Beyond restoring coastal ecosystems, this initiative has also heightened community awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. Educational sessions with local residents emphasized the role of mangroves in protecting coastlines from erosion and serving as a natural climate change mitigation strategy through carbon sequestration. The success of this program is expected to serve as a model for other regions to expand mangrove conservation efforts, protect coastal biodiversity, and ensure environmental sustainability for future generations.
