A collaborative research project between Universitas Terbuka (UT) and Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) is exploring an integrated approach to mangrove rehabilitation and coastal ecotourism as a Nature-Based Solution (NbS) to strengthen coastal resilience and support sustainable development in Indonesia. The research, funded through the National Strategic Research Program “Merah Putih” 2026–2027, is led by Dr. Feti Fatimatuzzahroh from the Graduate School of Universitas Terbuka, with Nurrohman Wijaya, Ph.D., from the School of Architecture, Planning, and Policy Development (SAPPK) ITB, serving as co-investigator. The project focuses on developing a community-based model that integrates mangrove rehabilitation with coastal ecotourism and contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Field Research in Tugurejo, Semarang

As part of the research, the team conducted a field diagnostic and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) in Tugurejo, Semarang City, from August 8–10, 2026. The activities were designed to examine existing coastal conditions, understand community involvement in mangrove management, and assess opportunities for integrating ecosystem restoration with sustainable economic activities. Tugurejo provides an important case study because of its exposure to coastal hazards, particularly tidal flooding (rob) and land subsidence. The area experiences land subsidence of approximately 2–12 cm per year, creating significant challenges for coastal communities, ecosystems, infrastructure, and local livelihoods.

The field assessment examined the role of community-managed mangrove belts as a form of natural coastal infrastructure. Mangrove ecosystems can provide multiple benefits, including coastal protection, habitat provision, carbon storage, and support for local livelihoods. The research therefore considers rehabilitation not only as an ecological intervention but also as part of a broader strategy for strengthening community resilience.

Linking Ecosystem Restoration and Local Livelihoods

A key feature of the research is its focus on connecting environmental restoration with local economic opportunities. The team assessed the potential of mangrove-based ecotourism, recreational boating, and sustainable aquaculture as complementary livelihood activities. Economic valuation of these activities is being used to understand better how ecosystem conservation can generate tangible benefits for local communities. By connecting ecological restoration with sustainable economic opportunities, the research seeks to develop an approach in which communities become active participants and beneficiaries of mangrove management. The study applies a mixed-method research design, combining structured socio-economic surveys with spatial analysis and GIS-based mapping. This approach enables the researchers to integrate information on community livelihoods, ecosystem conditions, land use, and coastal vulnerability into a comprehensive assessment of the area.

Advancing Nature-Based Coastal Resilience

The research positions mangrove rehabilitation as a Nature-Based Solution that can complement conventional coastal infrastructure to address the impacts of urbanization, land-use change, climate change, and ecosystem degradation. Rather than treating mangrove restoration solely as an environmental program, the proposed model seeks to integrate ecological restoration, community participation, economic development, and spatial planning. The Tugurejo field study provides an important empirical foundation for developing the integrated model. Findings from the assessment will help identify appropriate strategies for community-based mangrove rehabilitation and sustainable ecotourism, while informing broader efforts to strengthen coastal resilience in Indonesian cities.

Through collaboration between UT and ITB, the research also demonstrates the value of interdisciplinary and inter-institutional approaches to addressing complex urban and coastal challenges. Ultimately, the project aims to develop a practical model that can support climate resilience, sustainable coastal livelihoods, ecosystem conservation, and the achievement of relevant SDGs in Indonesia.