Growing the ‘rainforests of the sea’
Mangroves are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” but these vital coastal ecosystems are even more impressive than the name suggests. Hectare for hectare, mangroves store more carbon than any kind of terrestrial forest, making their preservation hugely important in the fight against climate change.
Mangroves also support diverse marine and terrestrial biodiversity, providing habitat for numerous species of fish, birds and other wildlife. Additionally, they offer valuable resources and ecosystem services to coastal communities, including fisheries support, timber and medicinal plants, and serve as buffers against tidal surges and tropical storms.
Reflecting the urgent need for conservation efforts to safeguard these invaluable ecosystems and the benefits they provide to both nature and society, the Indika Energy Mangrove Program in Action (IMPACT) was launched in March 2023 in Paser, East Kalimantan.
This three-year initiative transcends traditional mangrove restoration, emphasizing community empowerment, environmental resilience, and sustainable development. By empowering local communities to engage in mangrove preservation and restoration, we foster a symbiotic relationship between nature and people.
Working with government entities, local communities, and Maroon, our implementing partner, we have been able to amplify our collective efforts to protect and rehabilitate mangroves, contributing to broader goals of carbon neutrality in Indonesia.
Our ambitious plans entail mangrove rehabilitation across 250 hectares of land in Lori, Sungai Langir, Tajur, and Pasir Mayang villages. Prioritizing four mangrove species based on natural conditions and local dominance, we anticipate significant ecological benefits and carbon sequestration potential.
To date, we have planted over 46,600 mangrove seedlings across 35.35 hectares, marking strides toward our 2025 target. Beyond the ecological benefits, IMPACT underscores our commitment to safeguarding the economic livelihoods of coastal communities, fostering resilience and sustainability. Through initiatives like IMPACT, Indika Energy continues to lead by example, driving positive change for the environment and society alike.
