Member:
- Rifdah Utami Hasna Nadhifah (@rifdahutami)
- Faidzul Anwar
- Muhammad Ali
- Asari Wahyu Utomo
On the border between natural tourism, nature conservation, and food security, There is a harmony or debate that arises, Between embracing synergy or being entangled in bargaining. Ecotourism in Tidung Island, Indonesia: Balancing Beauty and Environmental Challenges.
Pulau Tidung, located in the Thousand Islands archipelago off Jakarta, Indonesia, is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse marine life, making it a prime destination for ecotourism. However, beneath its picturesque surface lies a pressing environmental issue: the persistent arrival of waste, particularly plastic, transported by ocean currents from heavily populated areas in Java to the shores of Tidung Island.
The Charms of Ecotourism in Tidung Island. Ecotourism in Pulau Tidung thrives on its natural assets, offering visitors opportunities to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, explore mangrove forests, and immerse themselves in the local culture of fishing communities. Community-driven tourism initiatives have empowered local residents, providing them with alternative sources of income and raising awareness among tourists about the importance of conservation.
The Hidden Challenge: Marine Debris from Java. Despite its natural splendor, Tidung island faces a significant environmental challenge: marine debris. Plastic waste, transported over long distances from densely populated areas in Java, accumulates along the island's coastlines.
This influx of trash not only detracts from the island's scenic beauty but also poses serious threats to marine life and fragile ecosystems. Plastic pollution endangers marine animals through ingestion and entanglement, disrupting ecosystems critical for tourism and fisheries.
Conservation Concerns, the issue of marine debris highlights broader conservation concerns in Pulau Tidung. Coral reefs, essential for biodiversity and fisheries, are particularly vulnerable to pollution and physical damage caused by marine litter. Similarly, mangrove forests, crucial for coastal protection and carbon sequestration, face degradation from plastic waste and other pollutants. Conservation efforts are vital to safeguard these ecosystems, preserving their ecological functions and supporting livelihoods dependent on marine resources.