Empowering conservation: the transformative role of mangrove education in Indonesia’s climate strategies
Hendra Gunawan, Mohammad Basyuni, Subarudi Subarudi, Sri Suharti, Asihing Kustanti, Tien Wahyuni, Virni Budi Arifanti, Irma Yeny, Oding Affandi, Sugiarti Sugiarti, Diah Zuhriana, Tien Lastini, Tuti Herawati, Melani Kurnia Riswati, Rachman Effendi
Abstract
Mangrove ecosystems are pivotal in biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and coastal protection. However, they are severely threatened by deforestation, land conversion, pollution, and a lack of public awareness. Mangrove education has transformed conservation efforts by empowering communities with knowledge and skills for sustainable management. By integrating science with traditional wisdom, these programs have increased participation, fostered climate-resilient practices, and strengthened local policies. Education has shifted conservation from passive awareness to proactive, community-driven action, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Indonesia’s mangrove ecosystems. Here, we describe how mangrove education can transform coastal communities into sustainable mangrove conservation societies in Indonesia. Several case studies demonstrate diverse approaches that enhance knowledge, attitudes, and awareness regarding mangrove conservation. However, there are challenges that lie ahead, such as limited educator capacity, insufficient resources, and the need for long-term behavioral shifts. Capacity-building programs, the integration of mangrove content into school curricula, technology-driven and innovative teaching tools, and cross-sectoral collaboration are potential strategies to address these issues. This study highlights that education marks not only an enabling factor but also a foundation for sustaining ecosystems, climate change mitigation, and coastal communities’ empowerment. This review provides a pragmatic way forward for the conservation and restoration of Indonesia’s mangrove ecosystems by building on proven successes through the application of these educational strategies.