From July 12-15, 2022, UGM lecturers Akbar Reza, M.Sc, and Puji Lestari, S.Hut, M.Sc, conducted research and community service in Kotabaru, South Kalimantan, focusing on Hilir Muara and Gedambaan Villages (UGM Strengthens Coastal Ecosystem Sustainability in South Kalimantan). Collaborating with SODEC UGM, PT. Mubadala Energy, the Kotabaru Polytechnic, and local governments, the programs aimed to empower coastal communities and preserve biodiversity. In Hilir Muara, initiatives included supporting environmental awareness groups, optimising composters, assisting waste management, and fostering economic sustainability through greenhouses and partnerships with BUMDes. In Gedambaan, activities centred on mangrove planting, biodiversity monitoring, and planning for Kalimantan plant cultivation. These efforts align with national programs like PROKLIM and aim to strengthen blue carbon ecosystems, mitigate climate change impacts, and improve environmental and economic resilience for coastal communities.
The establishment of the Institute for Future Life (IFL), is showing Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) proactive commitment to contributing to sustainable development and resilience planning (UGM’s Climate Action Through Institute for Future Life (IFL)). It is a vital start for UGM to collaborate with the local authorities on planning for climate change disasters and displacement, especially addressing climate change threats across various sectors.
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