Life on Land Archives - SDGs Center

Universitas Airlangga Hosts the 5th National Student Leaders on Sustainability Meeting: Mangrove Action for Coastal Ecosystem Restoration

Admin SDGS — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 17:37:20 +0000

SDGs News — Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), through the Airlangga Institute of Sustainable Community Impact (Lembaga Pengabdian Masyarakat Berkelanjutan/LPMB), proudly hosted the national event “The 5th National Student Leaders on Sustainability Meeting: Community Service Restoring the Coastal Ecosystem with Mangrove Action" 14/10/2025.

The event brought together student representatives from universities across Indonesia to collaborate on environmental conservation initiatives, focusing on coastal ecosystem restoration through mangrove planting at the Wonorejo Mangrove Area, Surabaya.

Collaborative Learning and Environmental Action

Before the mangrove planting activity, participants joined a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) session on the ecological and global benefits of mangroves, which highlighted their crucial role in mitigating climate change, protecting coastal biodiversity, preventing erosion, and maintaining water quality. The session encouraged students to connect scientific understanding with community-based action, strengthening awareness of how local efforts contribute to planetary sustainability.

The program was attended by Prof. Hery Purnobasuki, M.Si., PhD, Head of the Airlangga Institute of Sustainable Community Impact, along with his leadership team, and Yunita Suci Amalia, Environmental Impact Control Officer from the East Java Provincial Environmental Agency (DLH). Their involvement underscored the strong synergy between universities, government institutions, and youth leaders in advancing sustainability goals.

Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Through this initiative, Universitas Airlangga reaffirmed its strong commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The mangrove restoration effort supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by improving water quality through the natural filtration provided by mangrove roots, which trap sediments and absorb pollutants. It advances SDG 13 (Climate Action) by increasing carbon absorption and strengthening coastal resilience against the impacts of climate change. At the same time, the activity contributes to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by restoring breeding grounds for fish and marine species and revitalizing biodiversity vital to coastal livelihoods, and it supports SDG 15 (Life on Land) through soil conservation and sustainable land management.

Restoring Balance Between People and Nature

More than a symbolic gesture, the collaborative mangrove action reflects UNAIR’s enduring vision of harmony between people and nature. It demonstrates the power of youth-led environmental stewardship and community service in safeguarding the planet’s ecosystems—showing that real change begins with collective action, one coastline at a time.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

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UNAIR Initiates Tree-Planting Program at the Brantas River Headwaters: Synergy of Nature and Water for a Sustainable Future

Admin SDGS — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 03:45:28 +0000

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), in collaboration with several universities and strategic partners, held a community engagement program through a tree-planting event at the Sumber Brantas Arboretum in Batu City, East Java. Themed "Akar Brantas, Nafas Jawa Timur: Synergy of Nature and Water for Sustainable Life," the initiative aims to preserve the conservation area at the upstream of the Brantas River, a vital water source for millions of people in East Java.

This initiative brought together multi-sector collaboration, including five legal-entity state universities (PTN-BH) in East Java—UNAIR, Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA), Universitas Brawijaya (UB), Universitas Negeri Malang (UM), and Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS)—alongside strategic partners such as Perum Jasa Tirta (PJT), PDAM Surya Sembada, Perumda Tugu Tirta, PT HM Sampoerna, the Environmental Agencies (DLH) of Batu City and East Java Province, and the Batu City Government.

In his remarks, Agung Nugroho from Perum Jasa Tirta emphasized the importance of sustainable water resource management. “The Brantas River plays a crucial role in raw water supply, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation. Conservation at the upstream is key to preserving these essential functions,” he stated. He also noted that the arboretum is home to trees such as pine, cinnamon, and persimmon and is open for conservation research.

Nanang Widyatmoko from PDAM Surya Sembada added that 93% of Surabaya’s drinking water supply depends on the Brantas River. However, declining water quality and shifting rainfall patterns present new challenges that must be addressed collectively. “Collaboration with universities like UNAIR and ITS is vital in developing research-based solutions,” he affirmed.

From UNAIR, Prof. Gadis, Chair of the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), explained that this activity is part of a long-term national program initiated by the Directorate of Research and Community Service (DRPM) and LPPM, involving all PTN-BH. “Our current focus is the upstream Brantas. In August or September, the program will continue downstream, including in Surabaya. This marks the revival of initiatives like Brantas Tuntas on a larger scale,” she stated.

She concluded with an inspiring message: “There is nothing more important than ensuring that the Brantas River stays alive and continues to benefit all communities in East Java.”

This activity reflects UNAIR’s commitment to fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration for environmental and water ecosystem sustainability and represents a concrete contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

The post UNAIR Initiates Tree-Planting Program at the Brantas River Headwaters: Synergy of Nature and Water for a Sustainable Future appeared first on SDGs Center.

UNAIR Gagas Penanaman Pohon di Hulu Sungai Brantas: Sinergi Alam dan Air untuk Masa Depan Berkelanjutan

Admin SDGS — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 03:28:39 +0000

SDGs Center - Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) bersama sejumlah perguruan tinggi dan mitra strategis menggelar kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat berupa penanaman pohon di Arboretum Sumber Brantas, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur, dengan tema “Akar Brantas, Nafas Jawa Timur: Sinergi Alam dan Air untuk Kehidupan Berkelanjutan.” Kegiatan ini bertujuan menjaga kelestarian kawasan konservasi hulu Sungai Brantas sebagai sumber kehidupan bagi jutaan penduduk di Jawa Timur.

Inisiatif ini melibatkan kolaborasi lintas sektor, termasuk lima perguruan tinggi negeri (PTN) berbadan hukum di Jawa Timur—UNAIR, Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA), Universitas Brawijaya (UB), Universitas Negeri Malang (UM), dan Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS)—serta mitra strategis seperti Perum Jasa Tirta (PJT), PDAM Surya Sembada, Perumda Tugu Tirta, PT HM Sampoerna, DLH Kota Batu dan Provinsi Jatim, serta Pemerintah Kota Batu.

Nanang Widyatmoko dari PDAM Surya Sembada menambahkan bahwa 93% pasokan air minum Surabaya bergantung pada Brantas. Namun, penurunan kualitas air dan perubahan pola hujan menimbulkan tantangan baru yang harus ditangani bersama. “Kolaborasi dengan perguruan tinggi seperti UNAIR dan ITS sangat penting untuk merumuskan solusi berbasis riset,” tegasnya.

Sementara itu, Prof. Unti, perwakilan dari UB, menyoroti bahwa Sungai Brantas mengaliri 17 kabupaten/kota di Jawa Timur, sehingga sinergi antar daerah dan lembaga menjadi keharusan. “Konsorsium 5 PTN-BH Jawa Timur siap berkontribusi nyata dalam menjaga keberlanjutan Brantas,” ujarnya.

Dari UNAIR, Prof. Gadis, Ketua LPPM, menjelaskan bahwa kegiatan ini merupakan bagian dari agenda jangka panjang DRPM dan LPPM yang menggandeng PTN-BH secara nasional. “Fokus kami saat ini adalah hulu Sungai Brantas. Pada Agustus atau September nanti, program akan berlanjut di hilir, termasuk Surabaya. Upaya ini menjadi awal kebangkitan program seperti Brantas Tuntas dalam sekala yang lebih besar," ujarnya.

“Tidak ada yang lebih penting dari memastikan bahwa Sungai Brantas tetap hidup dan memberikan manfaat bagi seluruh masyarakat Jawa Timur".

Kegiatan ini mencerminkan komitmen UNAIR dalam membangun kolaborasi multipihak untuk keberlanjutan ekosistem air dan lingkungan hidup, sekaligus menjadi bagian dari kontribusi nyata dalam pencapaian Tujuan Pembangunan Berkelanjutan (SDGs), khususnya SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) dan SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

The post UNAIR Gagas Penanaman Pohon di Hulu Sungai Brantas: Sinergi Alam dan Air untuk Masa Depan Berkelanjutan appeared first on SDGs Center.

SDGs Center UNAIR in Collaboration with UI Green Metric and HIMA FST Lead Coastal Restoration with 1,000 Mangrove Trees at Kalimireng in Gresik

Admin SDGS — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 09:16:19 +0000

SDGs News - Gresik, East Java, October 25, 2024 Taking a step toward coastal conservation, the UNAIR Student Association of the Faculty of Science and Technology (HIMA FST), in collaboration with the UNAIR SDGs Center, launched the "Mangrove Planting Action 2024" at Kalimireng Mangrove Ecotourism, Sidomukti Village, Gresik. The initiative, aligned with UI GreenMetric’s Green Campus vision, introduced 1,000 mangrove seedlings to restore the coastal ecosystem, crucial for combating erosion, safeguarding biodiversity, and promoting sustainable tourism.

This collaborative planting effort underscores UNAIR's commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supporting the local community's economy. By enhancing mangrove ecotourism, the project not only protects the coastline from erosion but also aims to bolster local livelihoods as Kalimireng Mangrove Ecotourism grows in popularity as a green tourism site in Gresik, East Java.

The choice to plant mangroves reflects their vital role in coastal ecosystems: mangroves stabilize shorelines, protect against storm surges, and support diverse marine life. A single hectare of mangrove forest can sequester carbon at four times the rate of a tropical rainforest, making mangroves an essential tool in climate action. "This project is about more than planting trees; it’s about building a sustainable future. We’re not only investing in environmental health but also in community resilience," said Dr. Nurina, a lecturer from Faculty Science and Technology who praised the partnership between students, faculty, and the local community for coming together to tackle this environmental challenge.

Beyond the physical act of planting, UI Green Metric, HIMA FST, and the SDGs Center also focused on education and outreach, involving local residents and students in workshops on mangrove ecosystem care. The event included practical demonstrations on mangrove maintenance and community discussions on sustainable tourism practices, aiming to foster a long-term commitment to coastal health. The event highlights Universitas Airlangga's dedication to integrating sustainability across all sectors, a commitment evident in its alignment with UI GreenMetric's goals. As a part of the global Green Campus initiative, UNAIR is actively working to promote a sustainable campus culture, reduce environmental impact, and contribute positively to local ecosystems.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

The post SDGs Center UNAIR in Collaboration with UI Green Metric and HIMA FST Lead Coastal Restoration with 1,000 Mangrove Trees at Kalimireng in Gresik appeared first on SDGs Center.

Universitas Airlangga Integrates Local Biodiversity into Green Campus Initiatives

Admin SDGS — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 13:11:17 +0000

SDGs News - Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) is leading the way in sustainable campus development by incorporating local biodiversity into its planning and design. Through a combination of policy initiatives, partnerships, and green projects, UNAIR is transforming its campus into a model for environmentally responsible university spaces that support local flora and contribute to climate action.

As part of its commitment, UNAIR has issued Rector’s Decree No. 1050/UN3/2021 on Green Campus Management, establishing standards for building repair and construction to minimize environmental impact. The policy emphasizes reducing land clearing and preserving natural habitats while integrating green spaces into campus architecture. To strengthen its approach, UNAIR collaborated with the Association Nature Diversity, which provided training on Biodiversity Impact Assessment, equipping staff with skills to assess and protect biodiversity during development projects.

Recent projects under this initiative include a vibrant Rooftop Garden on UNAIR’s new lecture building, designed to create a cool, lush environment featuring diverse flowers and plants. This rooftop space not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the campus but also contributes to air quality and temperature regulation, aligning with UNAIR’s sustainable development goals.

Further enriching the campus landscape, UNAIR has developed a Fruit Garden, which includes a variety of native and locally cherished species such as mango, starfruit, water apple, guava, banana, papaya, sapodilla, jackfruit, and chili plants. This green space not only adds biodiversity to the campus but also serves as a living laboratory for students studying sustainable agriculture and environmental sciences.

Through these initiatives, Universitas Airlangga is setting a standard for green campus management in Indonesia. With dedicated policies, innovative projects, and a focus on local biodiversity, UNAIR is creating a campus that embodies environmental stewardship and supports the global goals of climate action and sustainable urban development.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

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Universitas Airlangga Empowers Local Farmers with Sustainable Agriculture and Resource Efficiency Training

Admin SDGS — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 12:13:52 +0000

SDGs News — In a bold move toward promoting sustainable land management and supporting local communities, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) is offering educational outreach programs that focus on sustainable agriculture and resource repurposing. Through its community service initiatives, UNAIR is actively collaborating with local farmer groups to enhance sustainable practices, reduce waste, and empower rural economies.

In Kedungpring, Lamongan, UNAIR's community service team has partnered with the Farmer Group Association Tani Abadi to train 20 local farmers in the production of biofertiliser. By equipping farmers with essential tools, including a biofertiliser bioreactor, the team ensures that they have the resources needed to produce organic fertiliser sustainably. This initiative not only addresses local fertiliser needs but also encourages a significant reduction in chemical fertiliser use, a step forward in promoting sustainable agriculture. The program includes ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure long-term success and support the transition toward more eco-friendly farming practices.

Meanwhile, in Bolo Village, Gresik, students from UNAIR's Faculty of Pharmacy are working with lime farmers, most of whom are women, to repurpose lime peels into hand sanitiser and micellar water. This innovative approach to waste reduction and resource efficiency not only curbs waste but also creates a new source of income for the farmers. By teaching the local community to transform agricultural byproducts into value-added products, UNAIR is helping to boost local incomes and promote environmentally responsible practices.

Universitas Airlangga is committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 15, which focuses on sustainable land use and biodiversity preservation. By empowering local farmers with sustainable practices and practical skills, UNAIR continues to lead in environmental sustainability and community-driven economic growth, setting an example of how educational institutions can drive positive change in local communities.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

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Universitas Airlangga Students Lead Ecosystem Restoration Efforts in Banyuwangi

Admin SDGS — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 09:51:31 +0000

SDGs News — In a powerful commitment to protecting Indonesia’s threatened ecosystems, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has initiated a series of impactful restoration projects aimed at preserving biodiversity in both marine and terrestrial environments. Working through its SDGs Center, UNAIR has mobilized local and international students to restore coral reefs and mangrove forests, protect endangered sea turtles, and promote eco-tourism.

In collaboration with 30 international students from UCSI University and Universiti Malaya, UNAIR students recently volunteered to restore mangrove forests at Pantai Cemara. Together, the team planted 50 Rhizophora mangrove seedlings to support the ecosystem’s recovery, essential for coastal protection and as a habitat for diverse marine life. These efforts are part of UNAIR’s broader strategy to address environmental threats to plant and animal biodiversity in East Java.

This initiative aligns with the Banyuwangi International Cultural Heritage & Community Services program, where UNAIR students also work on mapping and replanting medicinal gardens. These gardens are intended to help local communities by providing access to natural medicines and supporting land restoration. By promoting the use of medicinal plants, UNAIR fosters sustainable health and wellness solutions rooted in local wisdom.

UNAIR launched a sea turtle conservation ecosystem on Santen Island in 2023. This project, centered on creating a sustainable habitat for the endangered sea turtles, has introduced innovative solutions like “Intan Box” incubators, which provide a safe space for turtle eggs. Alongside these efforts, the project includes the release of hatchlings into the sea, the training of conservation cadres, and the use of ecobricks, supporting UNAIR’s educational eco-tourism vision for the island. These initiatives are empowering the Santen Island community, making conservation an integral part of local eco-tourism and community identity.

Universitas Airlangga continues to set a high standard in ecosystem preservation, actively supporting biodiversity through student engagement, international partnerships, and sustainable practices that foster resilience and community empowerment in East Java.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

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Universitas Airlangga Advances Conservation Efforts with Mangrove and Brantas River Programs

Admin SDGS — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 13:29:17 +0000

Surabaya, Indonesia — In a major initiative to support ecosystem conservation, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) is leading impactful programs to preserve two critical ecosystems in East Java: the mangrove habitats along the coastlines of Surabaya and Banyuwangi and the vital Brantas River. Both ecosystems are essential for regional biodiversity, water quality, and sustainable land management, aligning with UNAIR’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community responsibility.

In collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, and local communities, UNAIR has launched a mangrove conservation program aimed at protecting Surabaya and Banyuwangi’s coastal ecosystems. These mangrove areas provide a natural habitat for over 140 bird species, including 12 protected species, and serve as a critical barrier against coastal abrasion. By restoring mangrove forests, the initiative supports both environmental protection and sustainable eco-tourism in East Java, empowering communities to take active roles in preserving their natural resources.

Meanwhile, UNAIR has joined forces with the East Java government, five Indonesian universities, and three universities from the Netherlands to tackle the challenges facing the Brantas River, a primary water supply and irrigation source for the region. This ambitious redevelopment project includes the development of digital platforms—websites and applications—for real-time monitoring of water quality. UNAIR’s involvement also extends to organizing water patrols and collaborating with local agencies to manage pollution, combat illegal construction, and ensure the river’s sustainability.

Through these initiatives, Universitas Airlangga is setting a benchmark for collaborative environmental action in Indonesia. With projects aimed at preserving biodiversity, improving water quality, and fostering sustainable eco-tourism, UNAIR’s efforts are making a lasting impact on East Java’s natural landscapes and supporting global goals for sustainable land and water management.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

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Universitas Airlangga Empowers Communities with Ecosystem Conservation Education and International Collaboration

Admin SDGS — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:24:26 +0000

SDGs News — Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) is at the forefront of ecosystem conservation education, offering innovative programs that engage local communities and international students in hands-on conservation projects. Through its Banyuwangi Campus, UNAIR is dedicated to protecting Indonesia’s rich biodiversity, focusing on both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and promoting sustainable eco-tourism.

One of UNAIR's flagship initiatives is the sea turtle conservation program on Santen Island, where 25 local fishers have been trained in eco-tourism practices. This training is transforming Santen Island into an eco-tourism village, where community-led conservation efforts aim to protect sea turtle species while providing sustainable livelihoods for local residents. The program exemplifies UNAIR's commitment to environmental education that directly benefits local communities.

UNAIR conservation initiatives extend to the Alas Purwo National Park, where the AICONVAS program welcomed 63 students from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Together with local residents, these students studied protected species such as the olive ridley, hawksbill, green, and leatherback turtles. This international collaboration fosters cultural exchange and environmental stewardship, empowering students and locals alike to take an active role in biodiversity conservation.

UNAIR's commitment to conservation also includes wildlife observation programs in Baluran National Park. In collaboration with students from Central Mindanao University and researchers from Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), UNAIR conducts research on the park’s unique fauna, including the Timor deer, Javan banteng, and long-tailed macaques. These studies focus on identifying parasites that may impact these species, aiming to promote ecosystem health and biodiversity awareness.

By integrating education, conservation, and eco-tourism, Universitas Airlangga continues to be a leader in sustainable development. Its efforts not only protect endangered species and habitats but also foster a culture of environmental stewardship, uniting local and international stakeholders in the mission to conserve Indonesia’s precious natural heritage.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

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Universitas Airlangga: Conservation through Mangrove Restoration and Sustainable Land Use Initiatives

Admin SDGS — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:25:47 +0000

SDGs News — Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) is making strides in environmental conservation and sustainable land use through a series of impactful events and initiatives, aligning with its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In collaboration with faculty members and the SDGs Center, UNAIR recently hosted the Global Citizenship Conference of Airlangga at Mangrove Gunung Anyar in Surabaya. This event highlighted the importance of mangrove ecosystems and renewable energy, combining education with hands-on conservation activities.

The conference included workshops on mangrove conservation practices and the installation of solar panels, underscoring the university’s focus on renewable energy solutions. To support local environmental sustainability, mangrove seedlings were distributed to residents, encouraging community involvement in preserving these critical coastal ecosyste.

A major highlight of UNAIR’s conservation efforts was a community service initiative to plant 1,000 mangrove trees in Gunung Anyar. This large-scale planting was made possible through partnerships with local residents, PT Petronas, Indonesia’s SDGs Center Network, and UNAIR's own SDGs Center. The goal is to bolster biodiversity, protecting both marine and terrestrial life forms, while also serving as a natural barrier against coastal erosion and climate change impacts.

In conjunction with these efforts, UNAIR celebrated the International Day of Forests by holding a forum in collaboration with East Java’s Provincial Forestry Service. The forum spotlighted social forestry initiatives, fostering discussions on sustainable land use across 22 regions. This event brought together a diverse audience including government officials, students, NGOs, and community members, all dedicated to advancing conservation and sustainable land use.

Author: Saharani Buamonabot

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