InfoSAWIT, TANGERANG – The Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability by rehabilitating mangrove forests. During the "Greener Together" campaign organized by Radio Elshinta at Ketapang Urban Aquaculture, Ketapang Village, Tangerang, on Monday (4/12), GAPKI received the "Outstanding Conserving Sustainable Nature" award.
GAPKI Executive Director, Mukti Sardjono, highlighted the critical role of mangrove conservation in protecting climate resilience and coastal ecosystems. "Although our primary focus is palm oil, GAPKI is deeply committed to the environment. Planting mangroves is one tangible manifestation of our dedication to nature conservation," said Mukti in a statement quoted by InfoSAWIT on Monday (9/12/2024).
The event brought together Tangerang Regency Government, PLN, Radio Elshinta, and environmental communities such as WALHI, the Jakarta Mangrove Community, and students from UI, IPB, UIN, and Yarsi. Participants collectively planted mangroves and released 64 horseshoe crabs, a rare and endangered species.
Tangerang Regency Secretary, Soma Atmaja, mentioned that Ketapang Village has been rehabilitating mangroves since 2014 and is set to establish a Mangrove Research Center in collaboration with IPB University. "The Earth we stand on is not an inheritance but a legacy for future generations. It’s never too late to plant a tree," Soma remarked.
The conservation success in Ketapang Village has attracted international institutions like the World Bank and UNDP, recognizing it as a model for sustainable coastal management.
Haryo Ristamaji, Editor-in-Chief of Radio Elshinta, emphasized the importance of environmental education to prevent coastal erosion and maintain ecosystem balance. "Mangroves act as a shield against extreme waves, prevent erosion, and create habitats for birds and marine life like horseshoe crabs," he explained.
Horseshoe crabs, ancient marine species protected under conservation laws, thrive in the brackish waters of Ketapang due to the presence of mangroves.
Beyond Tangerang, GAPKI has rehabilitated 50 hectares of mangroves in Kotawaringin Barat, Central Kalimantan, over the past three years to combat high coastal erosion rates in the province.
The award received by GAPKI is expected to inspire more stakeholders to engage in conservation efforts, support environmental sustainability, and ensure a greener future for generations to come. (T2)
