Well-being Of Local Communities Research Articles

The Role of Local Governments in Supporting Social Forestry Implementation in Indonesia: A Social Network Analysis and Evidence from Eastern Indonesia

Social forestry has become an integral part of Indonesia's efforts to balance economic development, conservation of natural resources, and the well-being of local communities. The Jokowi administration has made significant efforts to promote this initiative, including allocating 12.7 million hectares of state forest areas and recognizing it as an instrument to address tenure issues in forest areas through the Omnibus Law on Job Creation with getting support from various regulations by relevant ministries. However, social forestry support is needed down to the local government/regional levels (provincial, regency, and village levels). This study aims to analyze the local government’s support for implementing social forestry. We employ Social Network Analysis to identify local government entities and their relationships in implementation processes. Additionally, document analysis is used to assess the extent of local government support through their working documents. The study shows that local government support for the implementation is still limited, with its execution primarily concentrated within a few agencies. Social forestry has not yet fully become a strategy for achieving community well-being around forests, enhancing local economies, or protecting forest resources. Furthermore, stakeholders' understanding of social forestry, resource availability, and local government policies to support it remains limited. Improvements in these three aspects are necessary to ensure successful implementation at the regional levels.

Optimizing tourist flows through operative carrying capacity assessment: The case of Bakkhali coastal tourism, W.B., India

<p>Carrying capacity assessment of nature-based tourist destinations is important for keeping the consumption of natural resources and anthropogenic pollution levels within environmentally safe and sustainable limits. With the mostly rural character of such destinations, the local community's well-being also needs to be prioritized. Exposure to natural hazards and climate crises have further exacerbated concerns about the long-term sustainability of these locations. The interrelationship between tourism intensity and its impacts clearly reflects in Butler’s Tourism Area Life Cycle model of 1980. The ‘elements of capacity’ and their ‘critical range’ mark a significant threshold in the model that leads us to the concept of Carrying Capacity. The capacity may be physical, spatial, ecological, environmental, social, economic, management, and governance, among others. This is also linked with the quality of touristic experience and satisfaction. In this context, aiming to understand the optimum level of tourist traffic flow in Bakkhali, one of the popular beach destinations of the deltaic island system of the Indian Sundarbans, this study assesses its visitor carrying capacity at three levels—physical, real, and effective. It also briefly introduces the idea of ‘operative’ carrying capacity at the fourth level. The study is based on tourist data till 2019 and adopts the well-established methodological framework of carrying capacity assessment applied widely in several settings. The result suggests that tourism operations at Bakkhali may optimally handle 2040 visitors per day, which may be stretched to a maximum of 2267 visitors per day. This may be used as baseline information for sustainable coastal tourism policy framing in long term while planning for tourism management and infrastructure development in the Sundarban region in immediate terms.</p>

Lowland Tropical Peatlands – A Brief Review of Their Important Role in the Global Carbon Cycle and Biodiversity Support

Tropical peatlands are crucial ecosystems, storing vast carbon reserves and supporting rich biodiversity. Despite covering a small land area, they play significant roles in global carbon cycling and climate regulation. However, these ecosystems face escalating threats from human activities, including agricultural expansion and peatland drainage. This paper provides a concise overview of tropical peatlands, focusing on their distribution, characteristics, and ecological importance in Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America. It highlights the diverse vegetation communities and notable animal species found in peat swamp forests, underscoring their conservation value. Peatland degradation leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions, land subsidence, and loss of traditional livelihoods for local communities. Addressing these challenges requires integrated approaches, including conservation efforts to protect and restore intact peat swamp forests, sustainable land-use practices, and policy interventions to regulate land management. Research collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and local communities is essential for developing evidence-based conservation strategies. By prioritizing the preservation of tropical peatlands, we can mitigate climate change impacts, conserve biodiversity, and safeguard the well-being of local communities.

Marketing Communication Strategy in Tourism Development based on Local Wisdom of Jayapura City Communities

<p><strong>Introduction:</strong> Based on a two-way communication model, effective communication between stakeholders can foster citizen participation in tourism management. Jayapura City's coastal tourism potential must be professionally managed, as evidenced by limited facilities and ineffective promotional strategies. The study aims to examine the community's social, economic, and cultural characteristics and devise an effective marketing communication strategy for developing coastal tourism in Jayapura City.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A qualitative approach utilizing a causal descriptive survey method, also called mixed methods. With Lisrell, the research was analyzed using multiple linear regression and the Structural Equation Model (SEM) model.</p><p><strong>Findings:</strong> The effectiveness of marketing communication in the development of beach tourism in Jayapura City is relatively low in the role of tourism managers and the use of media in tourism promotion. Coastal tourism managers are still dominated by the elderly who are not updated with digital technology. The potential of culture and local wisdom has not been optimized in tourism management. There has been no synergy between interested parties such as government, customary, and community in the application of tourism marketing communication.</p><strong>Originality:</strong> Many studies have been conducted on tourism marketing communication strategies, but only a few have studied them from the perspective of tourism development which involves participation and local wisdom of the people in Papua. This study shows that marketing communication strategies are part of the solution, and research on local wisdom and community culture can provide alternative tourism development to improve the welfare of local communities.

Implementation of Road Infrastructure Development by the Village Government as an Effort to Improve Community Social Accessibility in Nagauleng Village, Cenrana District, Bone Regency

Village government is expected to have an impact on improving the welfare of local village communities through the development of road infrastructure. This research aims to determine the role of the village government in developing road infrastructure in Nagauleng Village, Cenrana District, Bone Regency and to determine the facilitators and inhibitors of infrastructure development activities. Data analysis using an internal analysis model shows that the role of the village government in the development of Nagauleng village road infrastructure is still lacking and not optimal, this is due to a lack of planning, implementation and other supporting factors. On the other hand, inhibiting factors include a lack of oversight and monitoring of infrastructure development, a lack of budget from the government as well as difficult access and terrain where the location is a main road, thus complicating the infrastructure development process which takes a lot of time.

Indigenous Knowledge for Sustainable Communications and Mobility: Perspectives from the Kolyma Road, Northeast Russia

In northeast Russia, the famous historic Kolyma Road spans two thousand kilometers across two federal subjects of the Russian Federation: the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) and Magadan Oblast. Thousands of people live along and in close proximity to the road, depending on it for communication, mobility, goods, and life support. As the major transportation infrastructure in the entire region, it should be reliable and stable for local communities’ well-being. One strategic approach to ensure its reliability is to acknowledge the role of Indigenous knowledge, which has been neglected despite being established long before the emergence of existing formal systems of communication. Based on data collected through fieldwork, personal observations, and conversations, this paper aims to demonstrate that Indigenous knowledge regarding ways of living, moving, and communicating along and on the road is the key to sustainability in the region. As a result, we claim that this realization should be manifested in designing and implementing communication and mobility systems based on the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In the long term, it is necessary to develop a sustainable road management system for the Kolyma Road to ensure the security and well-being of local communities and for everyone visiting and working on the road.

Menggali Potensi Objek Wisata Riam Sengiang Desa Kempangai Kecamatan Ella Hilir Kabupaten Melawi

This research aims to explore the potential of the Riam Sengiang tourist attraction in Kempangai Village, Ella Hilir District, Melawi Regency. Melawi Regency is also known as an area rich in natural beauty and has a variety of amazing tourism potential. The tourism sector is a sector that can be managed by local governments to improve the regional economy and local communities. This research uses a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. Data was collected through reviews of journals, books, news, statutory regulations and other documents. SWOT analysis is used to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats related to Riam Sengiang's potential as a tourist attraction. The research results show that Riam Sengiang has strengths, especially in its natural beauty, tourism product development opportunities, and partnership opportunities with other parties. However, there are also weaknesses that hinder the development of Riam Sengiang's potential as a tourist attraction, namely limited road access and facilities. Apart from that, there is also a threat faced, namely sustainable environmental destruction. Therefore, it is necessary to improve infrastructure, develop facilities and maintain the environment to optimize the tourism potential of Riam Sengiang. This research provides an understanding of the important role of government in managing tourist attractions to improve the welfare of local communities.

Exploring Landscape Values and Willingness to Pay for Perceived Ecosystem Services: The Case of Malampaya Sound, a Socio-Ecological Production Landscape and Seascape

Since the 1990s, the Philippines has established numerous protected areas aimed at preserving regions with distinct biological and ecological characteristics. However, transitioning towards a more comprehensive approach to managing these protected areas, one that effectively conserves biodiversity while also supporting the welfare of local communities, remains a formidable task. Understanding the sources of the goods and services upon which communities rely, whether directly or indirectly, and their perceptions of ecosystem services (ESs) is a crucial aspect that can inform decision-making for both protected area managers and policymakers. This research specifically examines the mapping of landscape values as perceived by local communities within Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape (MSPLS) in the Philippines. Using survey questionnaires administered to 114 randomly selected participants, the study identifies the ESs within MSPLS and maps the associated landscape values. The respondents were tasked with assigning values to the ESs using a typology of 14 landscape values, and their willingness to pay (WTP) to enhance the ESs within MSPLS was also investigated. Analysis of socio-demographic data, the identified ESs, and the perceived landscape values was conducted to uncover significant relationships between the variables. Our findings reveal that the respondents prioritize provisioning services, particularly fisheries, agriculture, and agroforestry. Regarding landscape value preferences, economic value is most prominently perceived (37.4%), followed by subsistence value (30.8%) and life-sustaining value (6.8%). This study further unveils the socio-economic factors influencing the ranking of ESs and trends in WTP for ES improvements in Malampaya. Additionally, a potential payment for ecosystem services scheme in MSPLS is estimated at PHP 532,000, approximately USD 10,600.

Changes in natural forest land cover of the Eucalyptus urophylla type in the Mutis Timau area in 2002-2022, East Nusa Tenggara Province

Anthropogenic activities carried out by communities around forests in production forests, protected forests, and conservation forests have an impact on changes in the land cover of these areas. This impact is difficult to avoid because, on the other hand, production forests and protected forests are in direct contact with the lives of local communities. Changes in land cover have a significant impact on the contribution of Folu Net Sink, which is set by the government at 31.89% in 2030 with its efforts. This research aims to provide an overview of land cover changes that occurred in natural forests of the Eucalyptus urophylla type from 2002 to 2022. The method used in this research is a supervised/guided digital classification technique. Ground checks were also carried out in this research to match the accuracy of the image data with the actual conditions in the field. The research results show that changes in land cover in 2012 and 2017 were very extreme. Forest fires were the cause of changes in land cover during this period. Meanwhile, in 2002, 2007, and 2022, the land cover was still good, in a positive direction. The causes of changes in land cover are encroachment activities, encroachment, illegal logging, firewood theft, rice fields, forest fires, plantations, and farming. Forest preservation provides very high benefits for life on earth. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the welfare of local communities so that they do not damage the forest, as well as increase the capacity to educate the community regarding zoning or blocks in conservation and protected forests. Apart from that, good forest management is needed to ensure forest sustainability in the future.

Community-Based Tourism Mangrove Swamp Ecotourism Based on Maqashid Sharia

Having a wealth of potential mangrove resources, Pagatan Besar village has the opportunity to develop a sustainable ecotourism sector. This development must be directed at minimizing negative impacts on the environment and ensuring that the welfare of local communities increases. This research aims to find strategies for developing mangrove swamp ecotourism potential in Pagatan Besar village by optimizing the role of the Community based on Maqashid al Syari'ah. Qualitative research using a case study method in the mangrove swamp ecotourism area found that the strategy applied in developing the tourism potential of the mangrove swamp ecotourism area in the region was to implement a transparent accounting system to manage ecotourism income and expenditure, forming a special team to allocate initial investment funds and on the necessary infrastructure, maintaining the security and comfort of tourists with regular security audits, updating the security system through technology such as CCTV cameras. Optimizing the role of the Community is carried out by involving residents in skills training programs in the mangrove ecotourism sector, regular meetings for input and ideas, overcoming gaps in cultural and religious values with cross-sector consultation groups involving religious, cultural and village government leaders in the integration of Maqashid values al Syari'ah in the ecotourism plan, increasing environmental awareness through healthy environmental education for tourists and residents in daily ecotourism activities.

Bako National Park's Circumstances Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives on Biodiversity and Community Well-being

Bako National Park (BNP) is the oldest and smallest national park in Sarawak, Malaysia and its richness in biodiversity of flora and fauna here is indeed a major attraction for international and local tourists to watch proboscis monkeys. However, this COVID-19 pandemic instigates challenges to tourism development in the BNP because the number of tourists is very low compared to before pandemic season. This also has a huge impact on the local community and wildlife in this area. These new norms bring challenges and benefits to human and nature life. The following photos were taken during our five-day visit to BNP from 24th to 28th August 2020. The purpose of our short visit was to observe the circumstances of BNP in the midst of pandemic by emphasizing the aspects of biodiversity and the well-being of local communities. Thus, the photographs taken describe the situation in this area that elucidate the challenges and benefits to wildlife and community livelihood. Based on this study, it is clear that humans and biodiversity have complex and interdependent relationships with each other that need to emphasized by relevant stakeholders towards social sustainable development.

PEMANFAATAN POTENSI WISATA DESA DAN BENDA CAGAR BUDAYA SEBAGAI OUT BOUND PEMBELAJARAN IPS DAN ECOTOURIME DI KABUPATEN BIMA

The village of Bumi Pajo has several attractions that can be developed as targets for outbound activities and ecotourism, such as cultural heritage sites (WaduTunti/Inscription sites), ancient graves, Oli Kaleli waterfall, fruit orchards, and its characteristic location in highlands/summits. Due to the presence of cultural heritage sites/objects, the village can be utilized as a location for outbound Social Studies learning. The objectives of this research are as follows: 1) Identifying and gathering all potential tourism attractions in Bumi Pajo village; 2) Describing and analyzing efforts to utilize sites and natural environments as outbound Social Studies learning resources; 3) Conceptualizing the village's tourism potential as ecotourism attractions. This research employs a qualitative method with a pure descriptive approach or survey research. Based on the research findings, the village's tourism potential has a positive impact on improving the welfare of local communities and preserving cultural heritage. Tourism potentials such as the Wadu Tunti inscription site, Oi Kaleli waterfall, and fruit orchards in Bumi Pajo village can be used as locations for outbound Social Studies learning and also tourist attractions, which can be managed and utilized for educational purposes, enhancing the welfare of local communities, especially in the economic sector. To optimize this potential, it is necessary to encourage active participation from the local community in managing and preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage sites

PENGOLAHAN LIMBAH ORGANIK UNTUK PEMBUATAN PUPUK KOMPOS DI DESA KERSIK KECAMATAN MARANGKAYU

This training activity is part of a series of efforts to manage organic waste with the aim of producing compost fertilizer in the Kersik Village area, Marangkayu District. Using participatory research methods, this training documents the main processes in managing organic waste from local sources. The focus includes the natural fermentation techniques used as well as assessing the quality and yield of the compost produced. In addition, this activity considers the active involvement of local communities in implementing environmentally friendly waste management practices. The analysis carried out includes technical aspects of the waste composting process as well as exploration of the social, economic and environmental impacts this initiative has on the welfare of local communities as well as efforts to reduce negative impacts on the environment. By holding this training activity, it is hoped that it can provide useful insights in strengthening sustainable organic waste management strategies in Kersik Village, while also contributing to efforts to maintain the sustainability and welfare of the local community.

Paradisiacal Lived Experiences of Tourists in Islas de Gigantes

This study explores the viewpoints and experiences of tourists at Islas de Gigantes, a captivating tourist destination located in the Philippines. This research aims to unravel the complex factors that influence tourists' perception of Gigantes as an authentic paradise, using a combination of interviews and observations. This study explores the underlying motives of tourists, their interactions with the local environment and community, and their overall level of contentment during their travels. Moreover, it carefully examines the complex relationship between tourism and the remarkable variety of biodiversity of plants and animals found on these islands. It places special importance on the long-term viability of activities like scallop harvesting and their compatibility with efforts to protect the environment and promote the welfare of local communities. This analysis examines the economic consequences of tourism for local communities, emphasizing the crucial role that tourism plays in promoting local economic growth while also acknowledging the possible disruptions that may occur. The study reveals intricate patterns and underlying patterns, enhancing our understanding of idyllic travel experiences. This research considerably contributes to the global discussion on paradisiacal locations by exposing these findings to a comparison analysis with previous literature. Additionally, it provides practical suggestions to individuals involved in the tourism industry, highlighting the significance of responsible and sustainable actions that protect the natural surroundings and conserve the local cultural heritage. Although acknowledging the inherent constraints of any research undertaking, this study provides guidance for future inquiries. This statement proposes potential areas for future research, including longitudinal studies and evaluations of climate resilience, with the aim of improving the sustainability and resilience of tourism in picturesque locations in an increasingly volatile world. This research offers valuable insights into the enticing appeal of Islas de Gigantes, as well as enhances our comprehension of how pleasant destinations can coexist harmoniously with the environment and local communities, serving as an exemplary model for responsible and sustainable tourism practices worldwide.

The persilan on agroforestry crops system in java production forest

Agroforestry is an agricultural system that integrates primary trees and alternative crops on the same land to provide economic, social, and ecological benefits. One of the agroforestry planting patterns is called Persilan. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the concept of persilan carried out by pesanggem (forest farmers) in several blood types in Java. Researchers observed agroforestry activities in three districts in Java, namely Rembang, Blora, and Tuban. To see agricultural patterns in several regions of Java, we used secondary data studies and Google Maps. In addition, we also collect data through stakeholder surveys to find out the philosophy, land plot, calendar, and ecological function of persilan patterns. The results showed interesting facts related to land parcels in the context of agroforestry which were widely developed in several regions, including Pati, Grobogan, Rembang, Blora, Tuban, to Bojonogoro. Persilan is a form of agriculture where people use Perum Perhutani production forests as their planting land. They plant in the empty parts between the trees by combining primary plants with interstitial plants for 5 years. The concept of Persilan plays a role in maintaining the ecological balance of forests, economic prosperity, and social welfare of local communities.

Potential and challenges of utilizing Artocarpus odoratissimus (Binturung) fruit in Kalimantan

Kalimantan possesses diverse local fruit potentials, including the genus Artocarpus (local name: Tarap). There are approximately 13 Artocarpus species in Kalimantan, two of which are endemic to the region: Artocarpus nitidus Trecul ssp. borneensis (Merr.) Jarrett and Artocarpus odoratissimus Blanco. A. odoratissimus, commonly known as Binturung in South Kalimantan, is a less frequently encountered local fruit than other Tarap species. The destruction of natural habitats, mainly due to land use conversion from natural forests to other purposes, has led to a decline in Binturung populations in the wild. This study comprehensively reviews relevant literature on A. odoratissimus, encompassing fruit characteristics, potential benefits, and conservation status. Expert interviews, including botanists and biodiversity specialists, are conducted to gather additional information on the commercial potential and conservation challenges associated with Binturung fruit in Kalimantan. This research provides a comprehensive overview of the potential and challenges in utilizing A. odoratissimus fruit in Kalimantan. The findings are expected to serve as a foundation for sustainable conservation strategies and commercial utilization, promoting the conservation of natural resources and enhancing the well-being of local communities.

Empowering Rural Prosperity: Strategies for Sustainable Social Welfare Through the Tourism Village Priority Program in West Java Province

This research conducts a qualitative analysis of the challenges and intricacies involved in establishing sustainable tourism villages in Indonesia, with a specific focus on West Java Province, using the village of Alam Endah as its subject. The study's core findings underscore the pivotal role of human resource relations in driving the development of tourist villages, emphasize the importance of clear regulatory frameworks and legal structures for sustainable growth, and highlight the effectiveness of strategic marketing in enhancing the attractiveness of these villages. Additionally, it underscores the significant impact of sustainable tourism village development in uplifting the welfare of local communities. By weaving these elements together and fostering strong interconnections among them, this research provides a comprehensive roadmap for the sustainable development of tourism villages, offering lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits to the region.

Diesel to Solar Irrigation System: Economic, Environmental, and Social Acceptability Analyses by Small-Scale Farmers of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro

Solar irrigation systems are sustainable practices that can improve the well-being of local communities and enhance the resilience of agriculture to climate change while reducing environmental impacts. Due to its high investment cost, small-scale farmers are inclined to use traditional fossil-based irrigation systems that can harm humans and the environment. This study aims to analyze the environmental impacts, economic feasibility, and social acceptability of shifting agricultural practices from diesel-fueled to solar irrigation systems. Taking the perspective of small-scale farmers from Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, results found that solar irrigation system has a higher initial investment but lower maintenance and operational costs. These resulted in an attractive economic feasibility of the project with Php 19,693 of fuel cost savings per hectare per year, a project net present value of Php 10,214 per hectare, a payback period of 8.27 years, and returns on investment at 110%. Additionally, shifting to a solar irrigation system significantly reduces the greenhouse gas emissions from diesel at 199.78 CO2 eq/ha/yr, and avoids air pollutant emissions at 14.91 g/ha/yr particulate matter, 2.98 g/ha/yr nitrogen oxides,193.82 g/ha/yr sulfur oxides, and 149.09 g/ha/yr carbon monoxide. Despite the lack of in-depth environmental awareness, small-scale farmers are interested in investing in solar irrigation systems with 68% social acceptability. Results provide bases for recommendations on promoting more human ecologically and sustainable agriculture irrigation systems in the Philippines and other developing countries.

False Promise: World Heritage, Ecotourism, and the Local Community of Strahan, Tasmania

The inscription of properties on the World Heritage List often places restrictions on existing livelihoods. In these contexts, tourism is widely held to be a panacea for the economic and social wellbeing of local communities. Ecotourism, in particular, is regarded as addressing both environmental and social needs of communities. However, existing research demonstrates that tourism seldom delivers benefits to Indigenous peoples or local communities in developing countries. This paper suggests that such limitations are equally problematic for local communities in developed nations such as Australia. Through ethnographic research including participant observation and interviews, this paper describes the impacts of tourism on the local community of Strahan, a small logging, fishing, and mining town that transformed into a tourism village following the World Heritage listing of Southwest Tasmania. We suggest that contrary to the widely held view that tourism created employment and economic growth in the town, locals experience diminished quality of life, limited opportunities, and reduced amenity and services. This suggests that ecotourism overlooks its responsibilities for local communities in developed countries, with profound consequences for social sustainability.

Artificial Intelligence in Sustainable Tourism and Its Impact on Economic Development of a Country Like India

1. Overview of Tourism Industry Growth in India: Tourism in India has seen phenomenal growth in recent years, appearing as a significant contributor to the national economy. In 2022, India ranked at the 35th position in the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Travel & Tourism 2023 Economic Impact Report, contributing 8.6% to the national GDP and generating eighty-two million jobs. This trajectory is expected to continue, with WTTC forecasting India to climb to the 24th position by 2032, highlighting the industry's ongoing economic vitality. 2. Introduction to AI and its Capabilities: Artificial intelligence (AI) encompasses a range of technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, enabling machines to learn from data and perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence. These capabilities can be harnessed for diverse applications, including data analysis, pattern recognition, and robotic automation, opening doors for innovative solutions across various sectors. 3. Brief on Principles of Sustainable Tourism: Sustainable tourism focuses on minimizing the negative environmental, social, and cultural impacts of tourism activities. It advocates for responsible resource management, community engagement, and cultural preservation, aiming to ensure the long-term viability of tourism destinations and the well-being of local communities.