As part of their commitment to environmental conservation, on June 12, 2024, Unity in Action (UiA), in collaboration with Perhutani Kesatuan Pemangkuan Hutan (KPH) Banten, embarked on a journey to Teluknaga, Tangerang, to plant 1,300 mangrove trees at Hutan Mangrove peak 19, Resort Pemangkuan Hutan (RPH) Tangerang. So, while many students enjoyed their annual class meeting event, several volunteers and selected students from elementary to high school, teachers, and the UiA committee headed on their field trip.

This project had been planned for a while, but only now did we get the opportunity to execute it and bring real-life change to our environment. This project began with a fundraising effort, in which each class contributed donations. These funds were used to purchase approximately 1,000 mangrove seedlings, the other 300 of which were funded by the UiA committee.

But, why mangroves, you ask? According to an article by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), mangroves provide crucial habitats for various life in the coastal area. They are found to be highly efficient at sequestering carbon dioxide and storing large amounts of carbon in their biomass and sediments, which helps mitigate climate change. Mangrove roots filter pollutants and trap sediments from runoff, improving the quality of water that reaches coral reefs and seagrass beds.

The planting process was straightforward. Each student was given 1-4 seedlings to plant, carefully placing them into the soil and securing them to a bamboo stick for support. Each seedling was planted in one of two designated areas: a shallow zone or a deeper zone. The event concluded with a handover ceremony involving a representative from Perhutani KPH Banten.

This initiative was a new and interesting experience for all participants, as it was not only fun but also a learning moment for everyone. It underlined the importance of environmental awareness and hands-on action in shaping a sustainable future. It also directly involved the participants in restoring the earth’s beauty, even if it meant getting into muddy waters. But, our ‘sacrifices’, are what build our sense of care for the environment, which is the foundation for further development in our earth’s well-being.