Konservasi Mangrove Dan Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Dalam Upaya Mitigasi Abrasi di Pantai Muara Bungin, Muara Gembong, Bekasi

Abstract

The Mangrove Conservation and Community Empowerment Program in Pantai Muara Bungin, Pantai Bakti Village, Muara Gembong Subdistrict, Bekasi Regency, is a collaborative initiative initiated by CARE LRI IPB University together with PT Bumi Resources Tbk to address severe environmental pressures resulting from coastal abrasion, tidal flooding, and mangrove ecosystem degradation. Satellite-based shoreline mapping data show that between 1980 and 2023, the Muara Gembong coastal area lost approximately ±2,463.3 hectares of land due to abrasion, with Pantai Bakti Village being one of the most severely affected areas, losing up to 644.51 hectares. The program aims to strengthen area conservation through mangrove planting while improving community welfare through the development of MSMEs and forest farmer groups. The program targets include the Mina Bakti Forest Farmer Group (KTH), the Mutiara Bungin Jaya MSME group, village authorities, and community leaders, focusing on building environmental awareness and enhancing local economic capacity. By the second year, the program successfully planted 30,000 mangrove seedlings with a projected carbon absorption of 25.62 tons of CO₂ eq. The socio-economic impacts are reflected in increased MSME income, opportunities for soft-shell crab cultivation, strengthened group institutions, and expanded market access through digital marketing. The program also supports innovation in coastal processed products, quality standardization, and the attainment of halal certification. Additionally, the active involvement of community members, particularly fisherwomen, has strengthened social cohesion and increased participation in conservation activities. Key lessons highlight the importance of integrating ecological and socio-economic approaches, continuous monitoring, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to ensure program sustainability. Overall, the initiative has contributed positively to environmental and economic well-being while enhancing community capacity in responding to climate change.