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

Abstract

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