Mangrove Forest and Charcoal Production: Case of Batu Ampar,West Kalimantan

Abstract

"Mangrove is a coastal habitat that is found in tropical and sub-tropical tidal areas, but has been undervalued in the past and consequently subject to extensive removal and degradation. Conversion of mangrove forests into other alternative uses is happening in many parts of the world, including Indonesia. Despite the fact that degradation of mangrove forest is growing, the Batu Ampar mangrove biosphere remains relatively intact and good.

"This paper seeks to examine the underlying factors explaining the relatively good condition of mangrove in Batu Ampar, West Kalimantan. It is based on empirical study in Batu Ampar village that is part of the Batu Ampar mangrove biosphere. The research focuses on the human-nature interactions to mangrove ecosystem in Batu Ampar and is examined based on national political situation in Indonesia that can be distinguished between before and after the reform era. The community of Batu Ampar village depends directly and indirectly on the mangrove ecosystem resources with the majority of villagers being fishermen and charcoal producers. Their interactions with mangrove ecosystem are dynamic and affected by internal and external institutions. Since 2007, local charcoal production has been on rising, and careful attention to the sustainability of mangrove forest must be given. However, this research shows that charcoal production in Batu Ampar village can actually help to prevent the conversion of mangroves into alternative uses."