Spatial pathways of blue carbon: Mangrove connectivity, climate resilience, and sustainable economies

Background:  Climate change remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges, affecting ecological stability, social systems, and economic sustainability worldwide. Among nature-based mitigation strategies, blue carbon ecosystems, particularly mangroves, play a crucial role in absorbing atmospheric carbon. However, the spatial link between mangrove connectivity and atmospheric gas concentration remains poorly understood in Indonesia, despite its vast mangrove coverage. This study explores the spatial interactions between mangrove vegetation health, atmospheric gas distribution, and their implications for regional climate resilience and sustainable coastal development, a landscape characterized by the coexistence of oil, aquaculture, and mangrove ecosystems. Methods: Using a quantitative spatial approach, this research integrates Sentinel-2 Surface Reflectance (COPERNICUS/S2_SR) and Sentinel-5P Level-3 (COPERNICUS/S5P/OFFL/L3_NO2 and L3_CO) datasets within the Google Earth Engine platform. Vegetation conditions were assessed using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Mangrove Vegetation Index (MVI), while atmospheric conditions were evaluated through tropospheric NO₂ and CO densities from 2019 to 2024. Cloud masking, compositing, and band stacking produced annual composites. Statistical correlation and spatial overlay analyses were conducted to examine vegetation–gas interactions across administrative boundaries, followed by visualization and descriptive validation. Findings: The results revealed strong negative correlations between NDVI–NO₂ (r = −0.61) and NDVI–CO (r = −0.48), indicating that healthier mangrove stands correspond with lower atmospheric gas concentrations. High NDVI and MVI areas, particularly near tidal estuaries, exhibited reduced emissions, whereas fragmented inland mangroves near industrial zones recorded higher gas densities. Temporal analysis between 2019 and 2024 showed an increasing vegetation trend alongside declining NO₂ levels, suggesting positive ecological recovery. Conclusion: This research demonstrates that maintaining spatially connected mangrove ecosystems strengthens local carbon regulation and supports Indonesia’s low-carbon development pathways. Novelty/Originality of this article: The study introduces a novel spatial framework linking Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-5P datasets to quantify vegetation–atmosphere interactions, providing the first regional-scale evidence of mangrove connectivity’s role in atmospheric gas mitigation

Utilization of mangrove wood by coastal communities: a study on the ecological and economic impacts

Background: Mangrove forests have an important ecological and economic role for coastal communities, including in Torosiaje Village, Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo Province. This study aims to analyze the utilization of mangrove wood by local communities and its impact on the ecosystem. Methods: The research method used is a survey with a qualitative descriptive approach, through observation, interviews, and secondary data analysis. Findings: The results of the study indicate that mangrove wood is used as household fuel with a selling price of around IDR 5,000 per bundle. Although the use of mangrove wood as fuel is still ongoing, public awareness of mangrove conservation is increasing, so that the use of wood is now more directed at wood that is no longer suitable for use. Conclusion: Uncontrolled exploitation of mangrove wood can result in a decrease in the area of ​​the mangrove ecosystem which has a negative impact on the coastal environment. Therefore, a sustainable management strategy is needed to maintain the balance between mangrove utilization and conservation. Novelty/Originality of this Study: The novelty of this study lies in its analysis of shifting community practices in mangrove wood utilization, highlighting the balance between economic dependence and emerging conservation awareness in Torosiaje Village

Evaluating mangrove vegetation structure and community participation for integrated conservation management

Background: Mangrove ecosystem in Pulau Seribu is one of the conservation areas in Pulau Seribu National Park. Its existence is very important in maintaining the ecological integrity of Pulau Seribu. Changes in land cover and open space area are decreasing, thus affecting global warming, supporting sea level rise, and damaging mangrove ecosystems. This research is to analyze the condition of mangrove ecosystems, socio-economic conditions of the community, and efforts to optimize mangrove ecosystem conservation areas on Pramuka Island. Methods: The method used for primary data was the line plot method and measurement of supporting parameters, while secondary data were obtained from literature studies. Findings: The results showed that there were three types of mangroves found on Pramuka Island, with seedling and sapling growth levels having the same Importance Value Index of 200. While the pole level obtained the highest Rhizophora stylosa (267.74) then Rhizophora apiculata (16.39) and the lowest by Rhizophora mucronata (15.87). Conclusion: Based on the findings of the real conditions on Pramuka Island, it is necessary to repair and improve supporting facilities in the conservation area. The level of community participation on Pramuka Island is very low in mangrove management, with the highest average of 38.15% in the 'Never' answer category. Community-based conservation programs to actively engage in mangrove ecosystem restoration and management. Novelty/Originality of this article: Promotion of sustainable alternatives to destructive practices such as mini-tourism, ecotourism, and research/study can help reduce pressure on mangrove ecosystems. Areas covered by mangroves need to be promoted through a zoning system, such as maintenance zone, utilization zone, protection zone, and replantation zone

Community-based innovation in mangrove restoration: Transforming marine debris into a medium for ecological and socioeconomic resilience

Background: Mangrove ecosystems in urban coastal areas such as Muara Angke, North Jakarta, face severe ecological pressures due to the accumulation of marine debris, particularly plastic waste from domestic and industrial sources, which has caused ecosystem degradation and hindered natural regeneration. Methods: This study investigates a community-driven mangrove rehabilitation program initiated by the Muara Angke Mangrove Community/Komunitas Mangrove Muara Angke (KOMMA), highlighting an innovative technique that employs sedimented waste covered in mud as an alternative planting medium. Using a qualitative exploratory case study design, the research utilises secondary data from community archives, biomass reports, economic records, and educational activities between 2014 and 2021. Findings: Results demonstrate a 100% seedling survival rate, with biomass rising from 0.25 tonnes in 2014 to 67.99 tonnes in 2020, while carbon sequestration reached 117.16 tonnes of CO₂. In addition, silvofishery initiatives and the production of mangrove-based goods such as syrup and dodol generated more than IDR 130 million for the community within three years. Beyond ecological recovery, the program promoted environmental awareness through the Mangrove Education House and reinforced community solidarity through collaborative governance. Conclusion: Innovations rooted in local limitations, when integrated with ecological, economic, and social aspects, can strengthen socio-ecological resilience in polluted coastal environments. Novelty/Originality of this article: The study highlights a unique community innovation that turns marine debris into a restoration medium, combining ecological rehabilitation with economic empowerment, and offers a replicable model for other coastal areas through community-based restoration and carbon incentive schemes

Mangrove ecosystems in climate change mitigation: A sociological and ecological approach

Background: Mangroves have been identified as an effective strategy for climate change mitigation, due to their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) and safeguard coastal ecosystems. This study examines the role of mangrove ecosystems in climate change mitigation through the lens of both social and ecological approaches. Mangroves are acknowledged as efficacious carbon sinks and natural protectors for coastal communities, thereby making their contribution to climate resilience considerable. The objective of this research is to enhance awareness of the significance of mangrove ecosystems and to facilitate enhanced collaboration between diverse stakeholders in addressing climate change challenges. Methods: This study employs a bibliometric analysis methodology to examine pertinent literature, discerning research trends, patterns of collaboration between stakeholders, and the social impacts of mangrove ecosystem management. The data collected from scientific publications will provide a comprehensive picture of the intertwining of ecological and social aspects in climate change mitigation efforts. Findings: This study reveal a sharp increase in global research on mangrove ecosystems and climate change mitigation, alongside clear thematic clusters emphasizing carbon sequestration, ecosystem services, and conservation priorities. The analysis also shows that despite their vital role as major carbon sinks, mangroves remain threatened by deforestation, underscoring the need for strengthened conservation and restoration efforts. Conclusion: It is anticipated that the findings of this study will facilitate a more profound comprehension of the part played by mangroves in adaptation and mitigation strategies, thereby stimulating the formulation of more efficacious policies for the conservation and management of coastal resources. Novelty/Originality of this article: This article uniquely integrates ecological and social dimensions through a bibliometric analysis to reveal collaborative patterns and social impacts in mangrove-based climate change mitigation efforts

Morphogenetic and molecular insights into coastal crab species: Implications for mangrove biodiversity and conservation

Background: There are crab species that live in sandy, rocky and muddy coastal areas. One of the locations with these characteristics is Tabongo Village, Dulupi District, Boalemo Regency, this location has a lot of crab species diversity that has not been well confirmed. Identification of crab species was carried out by morphological and genetic characterization of crab species suspected to be Baptozius vinosus and Ocypode ceratophthalmus. This study aims to characterize the morphological and molecular characteristics of both species to understand their variations and phylogenetic relationships. Methods: Sampling used a handpicking method with purposive sampling to select individuals that have similar characters to the target species. Samples were then analyzed through DNA extraction, amplification, sequencing, and measurement of environmental data (temperature, salinity, pH). Findings: 16S rRNA gene sequence alignment results showed the nucleotide length of B. vinosus 568 bp and O. ceratophthalmus 567 bp. BLAST analysis showed 99.81% similarity between the O. ceratophthalmus specimen and the reference sequence (LC150355.1). Genetic distance analysis showed the closeness of the specimen to the population in Pakistan based on the Neighbor-Joining method (Kimura 2-parameter, bootstrap 1000 times). However, the phylogeny of B. vinosus could not be constructed due to limited sequence data. Conclusion: This study shows that morphogenetic characterization and molecular analysis can reveal the variation and phylogenetic relationships of coastal crab species. Novelty/Originality of this Article: This study provides insights into the morphogenetic characterization of coastal crabs and its implications for conservation and biodiversity of mangrove ecosystems

A remote sensing-based analysis of mangrove vegetation density and damage levels for coastal ecosystem management

Background: Mangrove ecosystems play an important role in the balance of the coastal environment but are degraded due to human activities and natural factors. This study aims to analyze the level of damage to mangrove vegetation in Paguyaman Pantai Subdistrict using a remote sensing approach. Methods: This research uses Landsat 8 and Sentinel 2 satellite imagery data, and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) method to identify the level of vegetation density. Findings: The results showed that the total area of mangroves in this area is 436.16 Ha, with a classification of high density (248.56 Ha), medium (174.23 ha), and low (13.36 Ha). Damage to the mangrove ecosystem in Paguyaman Pantai District is not significant, because most areas are still dominated by high-density mangroves and overall, the mangrove ecosystem in this area remains in good condition and continues to play a role in maintaining the balance of coastal ecosystems. Conclusion: Field validation results show that mangroves in this area consist of six main species, namely Rhizophora stylosa, Sonneratia alba, Ceriops tagal, Ceriops decandra, Bruguiera cylindrica, and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza. Novelty/Originality of this Study: The novelty of this study lies in its application of remote sensing techniques to assess mangrove vegetation density, providing a comprehensive spatial analysis that supports conservation efforts and sustainable management

Mangrove tourism management strategies and policies towards sustainable mangrove tourism: a comparison study between Mexico and Indonesia

Background: Sustainable mangrove tourism is important to maintain mangrove ecosystems and ecosystem services that are vital to people's livelihoods, especially in the face of economic development pressures from the tourism sector. Mexico and Indonesia have significant mangrove cover and face rapid mangrove loss due to anthropogenic activities, including tourism. Methods: This research used a literature review method, reviewing literature and reliable sources, especially those published in 2023. Policies related to sustainable mangrove tourism in Mexico and Indonesia were analyzed to identify and compare current policies, and evaluate differences, similarities, and lessons learned that can be applied in Indonesia to support sustainable tourism. Results: The study found that the two countries are similar in terms of government control of mangroves, conflicting policies involving multiple interests, and awareness of the importance of involving local communities in mangrove management. Significant differences were found in the history of mangrove area utilization, coordination between government agencies, and the effectiveness of the monitoring system in Mexico, which is more advanced compared to Indonesia. Conclusion: Indonesia can learn lessons from Mexico regarding increased community participation in mangrove management, development of a more integrated monitoring system, and improved coordination between government agencies. Adopting these practices can improve the effectiveness of sustainable mangrove tourism management policies in Indonesia, ensuring the preservation of mangrove ecosystems while supporting economic growth through the tourism sector

Impacts of long-term freshwater benthic insect community shifts on downstream coastal ecosystems

Background: Sungai Ijuk is a vital freshwater ecosystem, where benthic macroinvertebrates serve as key indicators of water quality and ecosystem stability. This study evaluates long-term changes in the benthic insect community structure over a 20-year period, comparing data from 2001 and 2022, to assess the ecological impacts on this aquatic system. Methods: A descriptive method was applied through direct observation at three sampling stations along the Ijuk River. Analyses included species composition, density, diversity index, evenness index, dominance index, and similarity index. Samples were collected from rocky, sandy, and litter substrates, and statistical analyses were conducted to compare changes over the two decades. Findings: The results show a significant decline in community composition, from 9 orders, 30 families, and 62 genera in 2001 to 7 orders, 22 families, and 36 genera in 2022. Insect density also decreased, with the highest recorded density dropping from 1696 ind/m² in 2001 to 1448 ind/m² in 2022. While the diversity index peaked in 2022 on leaf-litter substrates at Station I, the dominance index remained low across both years, and the similarity index among stations increased in 2022, indicating greater community uniformity. Conclusion: This article highlight a significant ecological shift likely driven by anthropogenic pressures such as pollution and substrate modification. Despite reduced species richness and density, the low dominance and increased similarity suggest a relatively stable, though simplified, ecosystem. Novelty/Originality of This Study: This research lies in its longitudinal analysis of benthic insect community structure and its demonstration of anthropogenic impacts over time. It also reinforces the utility of benthic insects as bioindicators of freshwater quality in Indonesia and underscores the urgency of conservation efforts to sustain freshwater ecosystems

Impacts of land clearing for oil palm on coastal ecosystems: A case study of forest and land fires in Riau Province, Indonesia

Background: Forest and land fires (KARHUTLA) on tropical peatlands in Riau Province, Indonesia, are a recurring environmental crisis linked to the expansion of oil palm plantations. Despite regulatory frameworks, the use of fire for land clearing persists, driven by economic incentives and weak enforcement. This study investigates the environmental, economic, and social impacts of land burning in Riau, focusing on plantation expansion, illegal operations, and regulatory loopholes. Methods: A qualitative-descriptive approach was employed, supported by secondary data analysis from governmental and institutional reports. The study utilizes an environmental-economic framework to assess the interdependence between natural resource exploitation and macroeconomic indicators, including the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) and IPAT model. Findings: Oil palm plantations in Riau increased by 120,000 hectares, with approximately 1.8 million hectares operated illegally by 190 companies. This expansion significantly contributes to karhutla, resulting in health issues, haze, and transboundary pollution. Although palm oil exports support Riau’s economic growth—accounting for half of its total exports in 2021—this comes at the cost of severe environmental degradation and tax losses of up to IDR 150 trillion. Regulatory exceptions permitting traditional burning practices are frequently exploited, undermining enforcement efforts. Conclusion: This paper concludes that sustainable solutions require tighter regulation, stronger institutional enforcement, mandatory ISPO/RSPO certification, and a shift toward technological innovations in land clearing. Furthermore, fiscal policies such as commodity taxation can fund environmental restoration efforts. Novelty/Originality of this Article: This study lies in its integrated analysis of ecological degradation and economic output through a macroeconomic lens, offering actionable recommendations for balancing palm oil-driven economic growth with environmental sustainability in developing regions