[Publication Article] Public Understanding: Towards Mangrove Conservation

Public Understanding: Towards Mangrove Conservation

In today’s era, where concerns about environmental issues are increasingly becoming the main topic of global discussions, understanding society dynamics has become crucial. The theme of our group’s article delves into the mechanisms through which environmental conflicts emerge and evolve within society structures. By understanding these processes, we aim to elucidate the complex relationship between human activities, environmental policies, and the natural world. Through case studies and theoretical frameworks, we explore how conflicts over resources, land use, and conservation efforts arise, escalate, and potentially transform societies. Our goal is to provide insights that can guide policy-making and community engagement towards sustainable solutions.

An approach to achieve sustainable solutions.

To achieve this goal, a comprehensive and structured approach is necessary. In-depth research should be conducted by collecting empirical data through case studies, surveys, and interviews with various stakeholders. This data should then be analyzed using relevant theoretical frameworks to understand the root causes and dynamics of environmental conflicts. By developing a theoretical framework that explains the complex relationship between human activities, environmental policies, and nature, we can identify patterns and mechanisms of conflict emergence. Documented case studies will help in understanding how environmental conflicts occur in different contexts and how these conflicts are managed and resolved. Analyzing the roles of stakeholders, such as the government, non-governmental organizations, local communities, and the private sector, is crucial for evaluating their contributions and challenges. Collaboration and dialogue among parties are key to achieving effective and sustainable solutions.

An example of environmental conflict within the dynamics of coastal communities can be seen in the destruction of mangrove forests in several areas of Indonesia, where many coastal communities are converting mangrove land into shrimp ponds or agricultural fields. Although this conversion provides short-term income through shrimp and fish production, the environmental impacts are highly detrimental. Mangrove forests, which serve as coastal protection, carbon sinks, and crucial habitats for various marine species, are rapidly decreasing. Consequently, coastal erosion is increasing, and marine biodiversity is declining, which in turn affects the fish catch that is a primary livelihood for coastal communities.

Addressing issues shall be holistic.

To address this issue, solutions include raising awareness among communities about the importance of mangrove forests through education and training programs. Awareness campaigns should emphasize the long-term benefits of mangrove conservation, such as protection from natural disasters and more stable fishery yields in the future. Additionally, the government and environmental organizations can provide economic incentives for communities that choose to conserve or replant mangroves, such as access to ecotourism markets or financial support for sustainable aquaculture. This approach not only preserves the coastal ecosystem but also ensures that the livelihoods of the communities are maintained in a sustainable manner. Policies prohibiting mangrove conversion and strict monitoring are also essential to prevent further damage. Through these strategies, it is hoped that coastal communities will recognize the importance of protecting mangrove forests and managing their resources sustainably, ultimately supporting the long-term sustainability of coastal ecosystems and their own well-being.

How the public sees the land conversion should be changed.

Public understanding regarding the conversion of land that used to be mangrove forests into pounds does need to be educated. They assume that it will only increase their economy, but do not think about the sustainable impact. Basically, they know what they are doing to the natural resources around them, but because of economic pressures that make them like that. On the other hand, there is government policy that must be dealt with firmly. Many people will arbitrarily do whatever they want because there is no firmness from the government regarding the policies they make. At least that is the legal policy that we must emphasize to the community regarding if they damage the environment, they will receive sanctions as they should. 

In conclusion, this article highlights the importance of understanding society dynamics in addressing environmental conflicts, particularly in the context of land use and conservation. Through case studies and theoretical analysis, the article demonstrates how environmental conflicts emerge and develop, along with their implications for society and the environment. Proposed solutions include enhancing public awareness, providing economic incentives for conservation, and stricter policies on land use. The article emphasizes the necessity of collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders to achieve sustainable solutions.

Alphabetically written by: Anwar, H., Musfika., and Ramadhan S. S.

Editor: Elmita Ayusyifa

This article was produced by IFSA LC UNHAS’ Workshop and Webinar Sub-Commission during the Sustainable Coastal Socio-ecological System: Shifting towards a Comprehensive Silvo-aquaculture Practices workshop that was held in Pajukukang Urban Village, Maros on 25 July 2024.

 


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