Application of spectral indices and deep learning (convolutional neural network model) on land cover change analysis

Background: Understanding land cover change is crucial for sustainable urban development, particularly in rapidly growing coastal cities such as Semarang City, Central Java, Indonesia. Methods: This study investigates spatial and temporal patterns of land cover change from 2000 to 2025 by integrating multi-temporal Landsat satellite imagery, key spectral indices—namely the normalized difference vegetation index, normalized difference water index, and normalized difference built-up index—and a deep learning approach based on convolutional neural networks. Annual Landsat images were preprocessed for atmospheric correction, cloud masking, and spatial subsetting using Google Earth Engine. Adaptive thresholding was then applied to each spectral index to delineate vegetation, water bodies, and built-up areas. Findings: Quantitative analysis revealed a significant decline in vegetation cover, with the normalized difference vegetation index dropping from 53.66% (397.59 km²) in 2000 to 46.83% (346.98 km²) in 2025, driven by urban expansion and landscape conversion, especially in coastal and lowland areas. Normalized difference water index analysis indicated a reduction and fragmentation of water bodies after 2015, linked to reclamation, sedimentation, and urban encroachment. Conversely, built-up areas expanded steadily, confirming accelerated urbanization. Scatter plot and regression analyses showed strong inverse relationships among vegetation, water, and built-up land, emphasizing ecological trade-offs and the loss of green-blue infrastructure. Conclusion: To enhance classification accuracy, a convolutional neural network was trained and validated on image patches, achieving a validation accuracy of 60%—outperforming conventional threshold-based methods by better capturing complex spatial patterns. The integrated remote sensing and deep learning framework offers robust potential for long-term, large-area land cover monitoring. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this research lies in its combined use of spectral indices and deep learning for multi-decadal land cover change analysis, providing a transferable methodology for other rapidly urbanizing coastal cities

The strategic role of renewable energy in supporting net-zero emissions targets in industrial clusters: Pathways to achieving sustainability

Background: Indonesia’s industrial sector has a high demand for electrical energy, contributing significantly to global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. With 84.53% of national power generation relying on fossil fuels, concerns arise regarding energy security and environmental sustainability, particularly CO₂ emissions from coal-fired power plants. Method: This study examines CO₂ emission reduction through rooftop solar panel implementation in the Industrial Area. A combination of literature review and spatial analysis was used to assess emission reduction potential and formulate sustainable industrial strategies. Findings: The research estimates that rooftop solar panels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 0.15 Mt-CO₂e/year (literature study) and 0.04 Mt-CO₂e/year (spatial analysis). Spatial studies provide more precise estimations than literature-based approaches. Achieving these reductions requires increased funding, technology transfer, human resource investment, improved social acceptance, local actor empowerment, industrial coalitions, and policy updates. Conclusion: Transitioning to renewable energy in industrial areas can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions. However, comprehensive strategies integrating financial, technological, and policy support are essential for effective implementation. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study uniquely compares literature-based and spatial analysis approaches to assess emission reduction potential. It also provides a strategic framework for sustainable industrial transformation, emphasizing the role of local and international collaboration in implementing renewable energy solutions

Water quality and degradation rate analysis: Assessing pollution and environmental impact for effective management

Background: Situ Pengarengan is polluted by various types of waste from community activities and industrial sources along its shorelines. This study aims to assess the lake's degradation rate by analyzing water quality parameters and pollution sources. Method: The research was conducted from February to July 2022, with water samples collected from six sampling points. Laboratory tests measured temperature, TSS, turbidity, pH, DO, BOD, COD, nitrate, phosphate, and E. coli. The results were compared to Class 2 water quality standards under Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021. Findings: Based on IKA-NSF calculations, Situ Pengarengan's water quality is categorized as moderately polluted, with an average score of 65.04. The degradation rate coefficients for each segment are 2.21 per day, -1.07 per day, and -3.04 per day. Conclusion: The findings indicate moderate pollution levels in Situ Pengarengan, highlighting the need for improved environmental management and pollution control measures. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study provides a quantitative assessment of Situ Pengarengan’s degradation rate using IKA-NSF calculations and degradation rate coefficients, offering a scientific basis for targeted pollution mitigation strategies.

Exploring resident perspectives and practical approaches to water quality maintenance in communal boarding facilities: Implications for public health and hygiene

Background: Water is a fundamental human resource, and ensuring its safety is essential for public health, especially in residential settings such as boarding houses. Water contamination can pose significant risks to residents’ well-being. This study focuses on exploring the water quality at a boarding house located on Bangka Street, South Jakarta, considering the importance of water clarity, taste, odor, and the infrastructure that supports water distribution. Methods: This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews and field observations. Data were collected directly from the boarding house owner and several residents to understand their perspectives and experiences regarding water usage and quality. Observations focused on water clarity, smell, taste, and the physical condition of the water infrastructure. Findings: The results show that the boarding house's water quality is generally clean, clear, and odorless—meeting national standards for safe water. However, an incident was reported in which excessive water use by a resident led to flooding and temporarily murky water. In response, the owner promptly drained the water tank and replaced outdated water pumps to restore water quality. These actions demonstrate the owner’s proactive maintenance and strong hygiene awareness. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of regular water system monitoring, immediate responsiveness to water-related issues, and the collaboration between property managers and residents in maintaining water quality. Subjective perspectives reveal that a sense of shared responsibility and consistent maintenance are vital in ensuring access to clean and safe water in communal residential settings. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research contributes original insights into water quality management in small-scale residential environments. It highlights the value of community-level engagement and practical hygiene practices, combining lived experiences with public health standards to promote safe water access in boarding houses—a relatively underexplored area in academic literature

Examining the implementation of extended producer responsibility within the palm oil industry: Challenges and opportunities for sustainable practices

Background: Indonesia, as the world's leading palm oil producer, significantly contributes to the global supply and national GDP. However, the industry's expansion has led to increased plastic waste generation, exacerbating environmental and health concerns due to inefficient waste management. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has been proposed as a strategic solution to improve sustainability in the sector. Method: This study conducts a systematic review of sustainability reports from Indonesian palm oil companies, analyzing corporate approaches to plastic pollution, sustainable packaging, and EPR. Data were collected from company websites and linked packaging-related sections, followed by a content analysis to assess commitments to these key areas. Findings: The analysis reveals a divide within the sector: while half of the major companies acknowledge plastic pollution in their reports, the other half lack awareness or action. Sustainable packaging initiatives remain insufficient to meet Indonesia’s target of reducing plastic usage by 30% by 2029. Additionally, corporate commitment to EPR is limited to only a small portion of the industry. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for stronger regulatory enforcement and corporate accountability in addressing plastic waste management. A broader adoption of EPR and sustainable packaging practices is crucial for the palm oil sector to align with national and global environmental goals. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study provides a critical assessment of plastic waste management in the Indonesian palm oil sector, offering insights into corporate sustainability commitments. By evaluating EPR adoption and sustainable packaging practices, it identifies gaps and areas for policy and industry improvement

Dynamics of surface water resource management towards fulfilling agricultural irrigation

Background: The dynamics of surface water resources and their influence on agriculture irrigation in Kano State, Nigeria, 2015-2025, are displayed in this research. This study aims to examine the influence of surface water availability changes on irrigation potential in semi-arid catchment. With looming uncertainty concerning water scarcity, particularly in Northern Nigeria, spatial-temporal dynamics of the surface water are critical to sustainable agriculture planning. Current studies have used satellite-based indices to monitor changes in water bodies and emphasized that such changes must be associated with climatic factors and land use patterns for irrigation development decision-making. Methods: Remote sensing data, including Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) from Landsat and Sentinel data, and rainfall data from the CHIRPS dataset, were used for the study. Spatiotemporal modeling methodology was used that included NDWI trend analysis, NDWI–rainfall relation, overlay with cover of cultivated land, and zonal statistics at the Local Government Area (LGA) level. Findings: Findings show that there is general surface wetness expansion in the southern and central regions of Kano State owing to enhanced irrigation activities, heightened water holding capacity, and possible aquifer recharge. Conclusion: The study concludes that water resource management in Kano must be specially crafted to overcome localized climatic stress conditions and spatial hydrological imbalance to facilitate sustainable irrigation under semi-arid conditions.Ground-truth verification is however absent, which limits the accuracy of surface wetness estimates, and future incorporation of field-based hydrological observations is recommended. The findings present actionable advice for policymakers on improving irrigation strategy formulation and adaptive water management in semi-arid climates. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research integrates satellite-based NDWI for the first time with rain anomaly and land use overlays to determine water body dynamics and their agricultural implications at sub-regional scales

Spatiotemporal dynamics of vegetation density in moramo district protected forest: A remote sensing approach

Background: Protected forests in the Moramo District play a critical role in maintaining ecosystem balance, but they are increasingly threatened by human activities such as illegal logging and land use change. Vegetation density shifts can disrupt ecosystem functions, particularly the hydrological cycle. This study aims to analyze spatial and temporal changes in vegetation density in the Moramo District Protected Forest using remote sensing. Methods: To detect vegetation density changes, the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) algorithm was employed using satellite imagery from Landsat OLI 8 (2013 and 2018) and Landsat OLI 9 (2023), processed with GIS software. NDVI values range from -1 to 1, allowing for vegetation condition assessment based on spectral reflectance. Findings: Results show a degradation trend in dense vegetation, with a decrease of 67.25 ha (2.86%) during 2013–2018 and 289.11 ha (12.31%) during 2018–2023. Conversely, moderately dense vegetation increased by 68.45 ha (2.91%) and 300.21 ha (12.78%) over the same periods, indicating signs of vegetation regeneration. Conclusion: Despite some vegetation recovery, forest ecosystems continue to face high pressure. More adaptive conservation strategies supported by spatial monitoring are needed to reduce degradation and support long-term sustainability. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study uniquely integrates a multi-temporal NDVI-based approach with socio-ecological analysis and GIS tools to monitor vegetation dynamics. It offers valuable insights for adaptive forest management in the Moramo District Protected Forest, an area previously lacking detailed environmental change analysis

Strategies for strengthening partnerships in circular economy-based plastic waste management

Background: Asian nations like China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam account for 60% of the estimated 4.8–12.7 million metric tons of marine plastic trash produced year worldwide. The majority of the marine trash off the north coast of Jakarta is made of plastic, at 59%. Because it offers financial advantages and fosters partner collaboration, the circular economy is a novel strategy for managing plastic trash. Regretfully, there remains a dearth of information regarding the entities engaged in the management of plastic garbage in Central Jakarta. In light of a circular economy, this research attempts to create methods for bolstering collaborations in the management of plastic trash. Methods: In this study, a hybrid strategy using a quantitative approach was employed. The best and most practical type of partnership in Central Jakarta was identified through the use of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in this study. Findings: The study's findings indicate that the greatest plan for Central Jakarta is a collaboration with the government since it promotes both well-managed plastic waste management and economic gains. Conclusion: The best partnership model based on AHP analysis is the Government-Private sector partnership. This form of partnership can drive increased economic benefits and improve the performance of plastic waste management. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study integrates a circular economy approach with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to determine the most effective partnership model for plastic waste management in Central Jakarta

Effectiveness of water extract of mangrove fruit flour (Rhizophora mucronata) as a natural preservative in skipjack fish fillets (Katsuwonus pelamis)

Background: Gorontalo is quite potential for the development of capture fisheries potential including the development of skipjack (Katsuwonus pelamis) production. In its processing, natural additives containing antimicrobial compounds are needed to preserve the fish. Rhizophora mucronata or R. mucronata is one type of mangrove that is widely spread along the tourist location "Tracking Mangrove" Langge Village, North Gorontalo Regency. This study aims to analyze the effect of length of storage of skipjack on organoleptic quality soaked using mangrove fruit water extract and analyze the effect of length of storage of skipjack on the quality of TPC and pH soaked using mangrove fruit water extract. Methods: This study uses a laboratory experimental method with 1 treatment, namely the length of soaking with 3 levels of treatment and 2 replicates, namely P1 (10-hour soaking), P2 (12-hour soaking), and P3 (14-hour soaking). The parameters tested were organoleptic, pH, and TPC. The research data were analyzed using a non-factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with One-way ANOVA test with a significance level of 5% and further tested using Duncan. Finding: The results of the analysis showed that the best soaking time of skipjack in the solution mangrove fruit extract R. mucronata was found in P1 (soaking time of 10 hours) with indicators meat incision slightly less brilliant and strong meat tissue; fresh odor and specific type less; and texture slightly soft and slightly less elastic. The TPC value of skipjack meat slices can be maintained up to 10 hours of immersion in the solution of mangrove fruit extract Rhizopora mucronate with pH being acidic. Conclusion: The study concludes that the optimal soaking time for skipjack in Rhizophora mucronata fruit extract solution is 10 hours, as it maintains acceptable organoleptic quality, a fresh odor, and a firm texture while effectively inhibiting bacterial growth. The TPC value remains stable up to 10 hours of soaking, with an acidic pH indicating preservation effectiveness. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research introduces the use of Rhizophora mucronata fruit extract as a natural preservative for skipjack, highlighting its antimicrobial properties and potential for extending fish shelf life. The findings provide new insights into sustainable fish preservation methods using natural additives, contributing to the development of eco-friendly post-harvest technologies in fisheries

ORUBEEX WRAP: Innovation in food packaging based on beeswax and corn husk waste (Zea mays L.) as an eco-friendly solution

Background: The urgent issue of plastic waste has driven innovation in eco-friendly packaging. ORUBEEX WRAP emerges as a solution by utilizing beeswax and corn husk waste (Zea mays L.) to replace single-use plastic packaging. Beeswax is chosen for its biodegradable, reusable, and antimicrobial properties, while corn husk waste is used as a filler to enhance mechanical strength and flexibility. This innovation not only reduces environmental impact but also supports the circular economy by transforming agricultural waste into value-added products. Methods: This study employs a descriptive-analytical approach, collecting and analyzing data from literature studies, scientific journals, and trusted sources related to beeswax, corn husk waste, and eco-friendly packaging. The writing process includes data collection, analysis of raw material potential, and evaluation of the environmental and economic impacts of ORUBEEX WRAP. Findings: ORUBEEX WRAP offers key advantages as a biodegradable and reusable packaging solution that can reduce plastic waste. The antimicrobial properties of beeswax help extend food shelf life, while the utilization of corn husk waste provides economic value to farmers. However, the product faces limitations in mechanical durability and application to wet or oily foods, as well as relatively high initial production costs. Conclusion: ORUBEEX WRAP is a sustainable innovation combining the benefits of beeswax and corn husk waste to reduce reliance on single-use plastics. Despite technical and economic challenges, the product holds significant potential to promote eco-friendly practices and the circular economy. Novelty/Originality of this article: The originality of ORUBEEX WRAP lies in its innovative combination of beeswax and corn husk waste, which has not been extensively explored in the food packaging industry. This innovation not only offers an eco-friendly solution but also utilizes previously neglected agricultural waste, creating economic value and supporting sustainability principles