Sustainable protection begins with shared responsibility.

Nur Ramdhani Ikhsan, Author

Unity for the Forest: Local Collaboration to Protect Kubu’s Mangroves

Mangroves, vital coastal ecosystems, play an essential role in combating climate change by storing carbon, preventing coastal erosion, and supporting biodiversity. Globally, efforts to protect mangroves have intensified as nations recognize their importance. 

On October 14, 2024, PT Kandelia Alam (KLIA), in partnership with the Kubu Village Government, the Village Consultative Body (BPD), and the Forest Village Management Institution (LPHD), launched a significant initiative to protect and preserve the mangrove forests of Kubu Village. This collaboration brings together local communities, government bodies, and private organizations in a shared effort to safeguard these critical ecosystems for future generations.

The initiative focuses on a multi-faceted approach to protect and manage the mangrove ecosystem sustainably, involving several key activities:

  • Joint Patrols: Local community members are trained to monitor the forests, detecting threats like illegal logging, poaching, and destructive environmental practices such as wildlife poisoning. By empowering local people with the knowledge and tools to act, the program strengthens forest security and ensures a rapid response to violations.

  • Community Outreach and Education: Raising awareness about the critical role of mangroves in coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration, the program informs the local population about the ecological, social, and economic benefits of these forests. The goal is to inspire collective action in forest protection and sustainable management.

  • Boundary Monitoring and Information Boards: Regular checks of concession boundaries and strategically placed information boards are critical to ensure that both residents and visitors respect the protected areas. This transparency helps prevent encroachment and reinforces the importance of sustainable land use.

This initiative aligns with the broader global movement for mangrove restoration. aims to restore 15 million hectares of mangroves by 2030 to mitigate climate change and protect coastal ecosystems.  In addition, the Indonesian government’s National Mangrove Map and recent policies like the moratorium on new mangrove conversion licenses are essential steps to protect and restore these critical ecosystems. These efforts reflect the country’s commitment to halting mangrove degradation and securing long-term environmental health.

The Nusantara Climate Initiative (NCI) is proud to support these local efforts as part of its broader commitment to sustainable landscape management and climate resilience. NCI’s mission is to develop and implement Nature-Based Solutions that integrate climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, helping communities adapt to climate impacts while restoring and protecting critical ecosystems. Through such initiatives done by PT Kandelia Alam, NCI helps communities strengthen their resilience to climate change, while contributing to global conservation goals.

This partnership highlights the importance of collaborative action in addressing the interconnected challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and community livelihoods. As we work towards a future where mangrove ecosystems are restored and preserved, initiatives like this demonstrate how businesses, local governments, and communities can come together to create meaningful, lasting impact.

Together, we are fostering a future where people, nature, and businesses can coexist in harmony. As the urgency for sustainability grows, the business sector has a vital role in adopting and practicing sustainable methods. By aligning profitability with environmental stewardship, businesses can not only meet escalating global demands but also lead by example in creating resilient economies that protect our planet for generations to come.

Author: Nur Ramdhani Ikhsan

Copy Edit: Yessi Agustina; Barakalla Robyn

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