Integrated Coastal Management in Purworejo Shows Mangrove Conservation and Blue Economy Can Work Together
Mangrove ecosystems in coastal areas are proving to be more than natural barriers against erosion. They are also emerging as new economic assets for local communities. This finding appears in a recent study by M. Nur Kamila Amrullah, alongside Sapardiyono and Dian Mardiati Sari from Sekolah Tinggi Pertanahan Nasional. Published in 2026, the research highlights how integrating mangrove conservation with the blue economy can support both environmental sustainability and community welfare in Purwodadi Subdistrict, Purworejo Regency, Central Java.
Mangrove ecosystems in coastal areas are proving to be more than natural barriers against erosion. They are also emerging as new economic assets for local communities. This finding appears in a recent study by M. Nur Kamila Amrullah, alongside Sapardiyono and Dian Mardiati Sari from Sekolah Tinggi Pertanahan Nasional. Published in 2026, the research highlights how integrating mangrove conservation with the blue economy can support both environmental sustainability and community welfare in Purwodadi Subdistrict, Purworejo Regency, Central Java.
The study is significant because many coastal regions in Indonesia are facing increasing pressure from land conversion, overexploitation of natural resources, and fragmented governance. Mangrove forests are often cleared for aquaculture ponds, settlements, and coastal infrastructure, even though they play a vital role in protecting shorelines, storing carbon, and providing habitat for marine species. The researchers argue that the blue economy offers a practical solution. This development approach promotes the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources while balancing economic growth, environmental conservation, and social welfare.
Mangroves Support Both Ecology and Local Livelihoods
The research was conducted in the coastal area of Purwodadi Subdistrict on the southern coast of Java. The area was selected because it has diverse mangrove ecosystems and coastal communities that depend heavily on fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism-related activities. Using a qualitative case study approach, the researchers carried out in-depth interviews with coastal residents, fishers, community leaders, and local stakeholders. Field observations and document analysis were also used to understand ecological conditions and governance practices.
The research was conducted in the coastal area of Purwodadi Subdistrict on the southern coast of Java. The area was selected because it has diverse mangrove ecosystems and coastal communities that depend heavily on fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism-related activities. Using a qualitative case study approach, the researchers carried out in-depth interviews with coastal residents, fishers, community leaders, and local stakeholders. Field observations and document analysis were also used to understand ecological conditions and governance practices.
The findings show that mangroves in Purwodadi serve multiple essential functions:
-protecting coastlines from erosion and strong sea winds,
-reducing the risk of tidal flooding,
-providing habitat for fish and marine biodiversity,
-supporting small-scale fisheries,
-enabling aquaculture activities,
-creating opportunities for ecotourism.
Among the five coastal villages studied, Gedangan Village has the largest mangrove area, covering approximately 15.6 hectares. Part of this area has already been developed into a community-based mangrove tourism destination. Other villages such as Jogoboyo, Karanganyar, Jatikontal, and Jatimalang have smaller mangrove areas. In those villages, mangroves mainly function as natural barriers protecting farmland and settlements from coastal winds and saltwater intrusion.
Mangrove Tourism as a Practical Blue Economy Model
One of the study’s most notable findings is the development of mangrove ecotourism in Gedangan Village. The site is managed collaboratively by community groups and village-owned enterprises. This initiative not only protects the ecosystem but also creates additional income for local residents.
Community members benefit from activities such as:
-boat tours,
-small food stalls,
-rental services,
-environmental education programs,
-sales of local products.
According to the researchers, this model demonstrates that conservation and economic development do not have to be in conflict. On the contrary, preserving ecosystems can create long-term economic opportunities. The study also notes that local regulations, such as the community ban on cutting mangrove trees, have played an important role in conservation success. These rules reflect strong community-based governance.
Policy Challenges Remain
Despite its potential, the research identifies several challenges. Coastal management in Purwodadi still suffers from weak coordination among sectors, especially fisheries, tourism, and environmental management. In some villages, mangroves are still viewed solely as natural protective barriers rather than as sustainable economic assets. As a result, opportunities related to ecotourism, mangrove-based products, and fisheries port development remain underutilized. M. Nur Kamila Amrullah emphasizes that effective coastal management requires cross-sector integration. Mangrove conservation should be linked directly to local economic development strategies, including fisheries, coastal tourism, and port management.
Implications for Society and Public Policy
The findings are relevant to many coastal regions across Indonesia facing similar environmental and economic challenges. The integrated model proposed by the researchers could serve as a policy reference for:
-local governments designing coastal spatial planning,
-coastal communities developing environmentally based enterprises,
-educational institutions studying coastal sustainability,
-tourism businesses focusing on conservation-based development.
Practically, the study shows that protecting mangroves is not only an environmental agenda but also a long-term investment in local economic resilience. If implemented more widely, this approach could support national sustainable development goals, especially in climate change mitigation, rural economic strengthening, and coastal protection.
Author Profiles
M. Nur Kamila Amrullah, S.T., M.Sc.
Lecturer and researcher at Sekolah Tinggi Pertanahan Nasional. His expertise includes coastal management, spatial planning, and agrarian policy.
Sapardiyono, S.H., M.H.
Academic at Sekolah Tinggi Pertanahan Nasional specializing in coastal governance and land law.
Dian Mardiati Sari, S.Si., M.Env.
Environmental researcher at Sekolah Tinggi Pertanahan Nasional with expertise in ecosystem conservation and sustainable development.
Research Source
This article is based on the scientific paper:
“Integrative Model of Coastal Management Based on the Blue Economy: Integration of Mangrove Conservation, Fisheries Ports, and Coastal Tourism in Purworejo”
Published in International Journal of Applied and Scientific Research, 2026.
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