Local scale climate change mitigation through mangrove revegetation on the south coast of Lombok island

Abstract

The mangrove vegetation in the coastal environment has a vital role, especially as a regulation for CO2 and O2 gas exchange. Mangrove revegetation has significant relevance for local-scale climate change mitigation. This study aims to assess and describe the success of mangrove revegetation in mitigating climate change at a local scale. Ecological data research methods are through surveys, observations and transect methods. Furthermore, the collection of social data through surveys, interviews, questionnaires, and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). Meanwhile, the research data were analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis, and analysis of the mangrove vegetation structure through frequency, density, cover, and essential value index analyses. The study results found seven types of mangroves, namely Sonneratia alba, Rhizophora stylosa, Rhizophora apiculata, Avicennia marina, Bruguira gymnoryzha, Lumnitzara racemosa, and Ceriops tagal. Sonneratia alba and Rizoporastylosaare species with the highest importance value of 194.04 where S. alba found Poton Bako and R. Stylosa found in Tanjung Luar. As for social data and knowledge, people in areas with a distance of 0-50 meters from mangrove forest have a better understanding than people living in areas with an average percentage value perspective of 52 %. Then, most respondents agreed that mangroves could prevent abrasion and reduce heat temperatures, with the percentage of respondents responding more than 41 % and 61 %, respectively in all locations. Based on the essential value index and respondents’ perceptions, it can be concluded that the Sonneratia alba and Rizopora Stylosa are species that have the highest ecological function because they have good adaptability in the coastal areas of South Lombok making them suitable as species for revegetation programs in South Lombok, and for the next revegetation program should be involving people who are close to mangrove forests because they are the ones who know and feel the benefits of mangrove forests.