At CarbonEthics, we believe restoring blue carbon ecosystems goes beyond environmental conservation, it also plays a key role in supporting and improving local communities' livelihoods.
At one of our coastal sites in Tanjungpakis, a passionate group of women known as KAWANIBU is engaged in creating sustainable products from blue carbon ecosystems, particularly mangroves. Supported by CarbonEthics and in collaboration with Yayasan Allianz Peduli, this initiative aims to strengthen the local economy while promoting environmental sustainability.
Blue carbon ecosystems are vital for sequestering carbon and providing essential resources for local communities, enhancing their sustainable livelihoods and local economies. These ecosystems, including mangroves and seagrasses, offer benefits such as fisheries and coastal protection.
Engaging with coastal communities is crucial. By listening to their needs and promoting awareness of the ecological and economic value of their environments, we can encourage them to take an active role in protecting these ecosystems.
In support of this, CarbonEthics established the Kelompok Wanita Dusun Bungin untuk Kesejahteraan dan Keberdayaan (KAWANIBU) following a training program launched in 2023. This initiative empowers women in Bungin village by equipping them with the skills to adopt sustainable practices, fostering community resilience, and promoting the responsible use of local resources. By investing in local communities, CarbonEthics aims to create a sustainable future where both people and nature thrive.
What Does the KAWANIBU Program Do?
In 2024, KAWANIBU officially partnered with CarbonEthics, marking a new chapter in their blue carbon intiatives.
Blue carbon ecosystems have significant potential for supporting entrepreneurship and fostering sustainable livelihoods. Through the KAWANIBU program, local communities in Tanjungpakis receive hands-on training to develop sustainable products from blue carbon ecosystems, particularly mangroves.
With Yayasan Allianz Peduli, we are actively working to diversify and enhance the value of mangrove-based products through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as assisting with market access, packaging, and certification.
"Alhamdulillah, we are very grateful for the support from CarbonEthics, which has helped us in the early stages of developing these mangrove-based products. From improving packaging to preparing for halal certification, it has all been a valuable experience for us." — Bu Samih, KAWANIBU Women Group.
Producing Various Products from Mangrove Including Dodol, Sticks, and Juice
Currently, KAWANIBU produces a variety of sustainable products, including dodol, sticks, and refreshing juice, all made from mangrove-derived ingredients. These products highlight the unique resources of our mangrove ecosystems while contributing to economic growth in the Tanjungpakis restoration area.
By harnessing the potential of mangroves, valuable income opportunities are created for local communities, enabling them to improve their livelihoods. Each product reflects a commitment to sustainability and showcases the versatility of mangrove resources, fostering a greater appreciation for these important ecosystems.
Looking ahead, KAWANIBU is focused on expanding efforts even further. Plans include increasing production capacity, developing new product lines, and improving market access for existing offerings. Through these initiatives, KAWANIBU aims to make a meaningful difference that benefits the community economically while promoting environmental stewardship. Together, lasting advantages can be created that support the well-being of local residents and ensure the sustainable use of precious mangrove resources.
Help support initiatives like KAWANIBU across Indonesia’s coastline through our Tree Planting initiatives. Learn more at www.carbonethics.co/partnership.
