UNAIR NEWS – The existence of mangrove forests in coastal areas is important as a barrier against sea waves. Furthermore, mangrove forests are also useful as a habitat for thousands of species, as well as stabilizing the coastline, and preventing erosion. However, some community groups have converted it into a settlement, such as on the island of Ketam.
For this problem, 17 students of Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) UNAIR who are members of International Community Service (ICS) held at Management & Science University (MSU) Malaysia held My Blue Forest Initiative 2.0. The activity was also attended by MSU students in collaboration with the Nature Lover Organization on Ketam Island, on February 3, 2020.
Army Justitia, S. Kom., M. Kom., as the supervisor said that Ketam Island was chosen because the it is not too far away and accessible. In addition, the existence of mangrove forests does not get much attention from the surrounding communities.
“They (the communities, ed) continue to open up land for residential areas. If it continues, it will threaten the existence and sustainability of Pulau Ketam, ” she added.
The activity consisted of two agendas, planting mangrove trees and breeding mangrove seeds, which involved 2 groups of delegates from UNAIR and MSU.
Army revealed that about 50 mangrove trees were successfully planted in the activity while the mangrove seeds that were successfully planted were about 100 mangrove seeds.
The planted mangroves were Rhizopora mucronata and Rhizopora apiculate because those are the only type of mangroves that can grow.
With this activity, she continued, environmental conservation is expected to be maintained, especially the mangrove forests around Ketam Island. And, it can teach the next generation about the importance of environmental sustainability to create a sustainable life.
“It can also increase awareness of the surrounding communities on the importance of preserving mangrove forests by involving them,” she concluded. (*)
Author: Asthesia Dhea Cantika
Editor : Binti Q. Masruroh
