Empowering Local Communities: How Coral Conservation Can Enhance Climate Resilience in the Face of Global Challenges

In the waters of Gili-Noko, East Java, a team of university students from Indonesia is taking meaningful action for the environment. They are part of a project called Dwipantara VII, working together to tackle major issues like coral reef damage and waste management. From April 28 to May 4, 2025, these students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) organized a week-long expedition focused on coral transplantation and community involvement in the Gili-Noko marine area.

The urgency of this mission is amplified by the ongoing effects of climate change. Coral reefs are vital ecosystems, yet nearly half are facing severe degradation. They provide habitats for a quarter of all marine species and protect coastal areas from storms and erosion (NOAA, 2025). With rising sea temperatures and pollution, the health of our oceans hangs in the balance.

During their expedition, the team employed scientific methods like Underwater Photo Transect (UPT) and Underwater Visual Census (UVC) to assess coral and fish populations. They recorded 760 fish from various species, including Pomacentrus and Chromis. This data not only shows the diversity of marine life but also underscores the delicate status of these ecosystems.

A key part of their work was the transplantation of 151 coral fragments using innovative spider web frames. While coral gardening isn’t new, this initiative stands out due to its community involvement. After the expedition, local groups like Hijau Daun will take charge of monitoring and care, ensuring a sustained recovery effort.

The students also listened to local voices through interviews. One pressing issue that arose was plastic pollution. The community identified two primary sources of this waste: debris from ocean currents and local household waste. This indicates a clear need for improved waste management and education.

Dwipantara VII represents a model of local stewardship. As emphasized by international frameworks like the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030), climate resilience should be built from grassroots efforts. By involving local communities, this project not only focuses on ecological restoration but also builds social connections and empowers islanders to protect their marine environment.

This expedition sheds light on the critical role young people can play in climate action. With rising sea levels affecting many small island communities, initiatives like these show that meaningful change can start small. Sometimes all it takes is a group of passionate students, some diving gear, and a commitment to collaboration to make a real difference for our planet.

In a world where climate issues often seem overwhelming, grassroots actions like Dwipantara VII remind us that there is hope. Engaging local communities makes the fight for a healthier environment not just essential, but effective.



Source link

Climate Crisis,coral reef,Indonesia