Revealing the Issue of Coral Reefs, IPB University Professor: Indonesia’s Beautiful Asset, Must Be Protected Together
As an archipelagic nation with 17.500 islands, most of which are surrounded by coral reefs, Indonesia is a string of tropical pearls on the equator. The beauty of Indonesia’s coral reefs is unparalleled in the world. Unfortunately, many are unaware of the value of this asset.
This was highlighted by Prof Neviaty P. Zamani, a professor at IPB University from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPIK) during the online Inaugural Oration of IPB University Professors (7/4).
“Indonesia’s coral reefs are a gift likened to a beauty that many people are unaware of. Sometimes we do not realize the true value of coral reefs that we should manage well,” she explained.
She mentioned that the beauty of coral reefs can actually be enjoyed without causing harm. Sustainable tourism is one of the keys to maintaining the health of coral reefs.
“Foreign tourists are willing to pay a high price for their trips just to enjoy the beauty of the underwater panorama. Unfortunately, we do not manage this opportunity well, so often beautiful coral reefs are considered very cheap, not as valuable as they should be,” said Prof Neviaty.
She explained that coral reefs face highly complex threats, one of which is due to climate change. These threats can disrupt coral reproduction, slow coral growth, reduce biodiversity, and alter coral species distribution.
Therefore, she continued, it is necessary to implement appropriate rehabilitation and restoration strategies to restore coral resilience and health. “IPB University has developed various rehabilitation methods such as coral transplantation and biorock,” said Prof Neviyati.
“These methods work by forming limestone solid on a steel frame through the process of electrolysis of seawater, which produces solid minerals due to pH changes in the cathode area,” explained the IPB University lecturer from the Department of Marine Science and Technology (ITK).
Furthermore, she stated that Indonesia also faces social and economic challenges in ensuring that local communities have a sense of ownership of the coral reef area so that they can collectively protect the region.
“Let’s preserve the beauty of Indonesia’s coral reefs, a valuable asset that must be conserved for a brighter future. Through collective efforts, we can ensure that the coral reefs remain enchanting and provide sustainable benefits for coastal communities, especially and for Indonesia as a whole,” she concluded. (Lp/Rz) (IAAS/EXC)
