Indonesia launches mangrove reforestation initiatives to combat coastal erosion

Various environmental conservation initiatives are underway across Indonesia to combat coastal erosion and protect local livelihoods through mangrove reforestation.

In Bekasi Regency, the Environmental Agency (DLH) partnered with PT Menarini Indria Laboratories (MILabs) to plant 1,500 mangrove seedlings in Hurip Jaya Village, Babelan District. This collaboration aims to mitigate abrasion and maintain the coastal ecosystem balance in response to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

In Riau, the Ministry of Forestry is working with the Riau Regional Police through the Mangroves for Coastal Resilience (M4CR) program. This initiative targets 17 locations in frontier and coastal areas, including Kuala Selat Village in Indragiri Hilir. The program addresses severe abrasion that previously impacted over 1,200 hectares of coconut plantations. Beyond reforestation, the M4CR program has supported local community groups with grants for alternative economic activities, such as shrimp fattening and cracker production, to strengthen local income stability.