Environmental communication model through community-based tourism development in overcoming mangrove damage

Abstract

Environmental crises such as pollution, forest damage, loss of biodiversity, and climate change are the real problems. The environmental changes can impact the social and economic life of the community. The destruction of mangrove forests and abrasion is a major problem on the coast of Riau Province. This study aims to explain environmental communication through Community based Tourism (CBT) in overcoming mangrove damage in Pangkalan Jambi Village, Bengkalis Regency. This study uses a qualitative method with case studies. The results showed that environmental communication through CBT was carried out by Community Development of PT Pertamina RU II Sei Pakning in collaboration with a fishing group. Environmental communication activities to overcome abrasion and mangrove damage are done by establishing good relations, strengthening fishermen group institutions, and connecting with other groups or stakeholders. Pertamina empowers the fishing group by holding meetings, providing training, and developing tourism-based innovations to conserve mangroves. The emphasis of communication with CBT uses the principles: friendship, deliberation, and mutual cooperation. Mangrove Education Center, besides being a tourist destination, its existence is an important communication channel for public education to care about the environment. This environmental message is not only addressed to empower communities, school students, and local village youth but also has a broad impact on visitors, even becoming mass media coverage and discussions on social media. This CBT-based environmental communication model must be supported and integrated with other stakeholders so that its existence has a wider and sustainable impact.