23 December 2021 | Tanjung Leban Village, Bengkalis, Riau, Indonesia From December 17 to 22, 2021, the JSPS Alumni Association of Indonesia (JAAI) in collaboration with Riau’s Partners Networking organized a memorable eco-tourism trip to Tanjung Leban Village, located in the Bengkalis region of the Riau Biosphere Reserve Area. Themed “Welcoming the Blessing of Tanjung Leban Landscape Restoration for Sustainability,” this trip was an integral part of the Integrated Actions of Peatland and Mangrove Restoration and Sustainable Development through the Bio-village Concept Program.
Exploring Restoration Efforts
Participants of the eco-tourism trip had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the ongoing restoration efforts in the Tanjung Leban landscape. This region is renowned for its significant peatland and mangrove ecosystems, which play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, and supporting local communities.
Activities and Highlights
The trip featured a series of activities designed to educate and engage participants in sustainable practices and restoration initiatives. Highlights included:
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- Guided Tours: Participants were guided through restored areas of the peatland and mangroves, learning about the importance of these ecosystems and the specific restoration techniques being employed.
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- Community Engagement: Interactions with local communities provided insights into how the bio-village concept is being implemented to harmonize sustainable living with environmental conservation.
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- Workshops and Seminars: Educational sessions were conducted to discuss the challenges and successes of the restoration projects, emphasizing the role of integrated policies and community involvement.
Collaborative Efforts
The collaboration between JAAI and Riau’s Partners Networking underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder efforts in achieving sustainable development goals. By bringing together experts, community members, and environmentalists, the trip facilitated knowledge sharing and fostered a collective commitment to ecological preservation.
Conclusion
The eco-tourism trip to Tanjung Leban Village was a testament to the positive impact of integrated restoration efforts. Through hands-on experiences and educational activities, participants gained a deeper understanding of the critical role that peatland and mangrove ecosystems play in sustainability. The trip not only highlighted the successes of the restoration projects but also inspired continued efforts towards achieving a harmonious balance between human activities and environmental conservation.
