Women empowerment on mangrove conservation and restoration in East Java-Indonesia: transformative resilience to the impacts of sea-level rise

Project partner: Yagasu (Aceh Sumatran Elephant Foundation)

The East Java coastal zone used to be one of the Indonesian provinces with the highest mangrove coverage and biodiversity. It was rich in tropical marine ecosystems such as estuarial beaches, mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and small island ecosystems. However, from 1988 to 2022, the region experienced a dramatic 76% loss in mangrove vegetation. This is a red flag for its coastal communities, who are increasingly vulnerable tothe impact of climate change, including shifting weather patterns, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events. This project by Yagasu mobilises vulnerable coastal villagers to engage in mangrove restoration and conservation, while addressing local barriers to ecosystem and community-based adaptation.

Beyond a consensus among stakeholders at the village level, our project partner provides technical support and community capabilities—particularly among woman—through training in mangrove management, eco-tourism and micro-enterprise development. Women's groups will also be supported in accessing benefits from mangrove-based products and services.

Women-led efforts will serve as a foundation to strengthen social and economic resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate-related coastal threats for both the community and the environment.

Output and Outcomes:

• 559 ha of existing mangroves patrolled and 24.8ha of mangroves restored (achieved by the planting of 45,000 seedlings and 90,000 propagules).

• 148 school children and 152 villagers engaged through 19 events, sessions and visits.

• 67 people trained over four training sessions.

• Four women's groups, comprising 74 members, supported with training, equipment and materials for mangrove-based livelihoods.

• 932 members of the community engaged through educational festivals and exhibitions.