PANGKALPINANG -- The mangrove ecosystem has the ability to store high carbon which is useful in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. So it can reduce the impact of climate change.
For this reason, PT Timah Tbk consistently continues to promote mangrove planting. This September, members of the MIND ID Mining Industry Holding have planted 3,000 mangrove stems in West Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands Province, and Kundur Island in Karimun Regency, Riau Islands Province.
Not only that, to reduce air pollution in the Riau Islands Province, PT Timah Tbk is also implementing the planting of hundreds of fruit trees in the West Kundur District. The trees planted include fruit trees and other productive trees.
The planting of trees and mangroves is also in line with the Mutual Cooperation to Give Trees action which is being promoted by the Ministry of BUMN.
In implementing the tree and mangrove planting, PT Timah Tbk involved the community, employees, and students in the company's operational areas.
This mangrove planting was also enthusiastically welcomed by the local community, as stated by Kamora, a resident of Belo Laut, West Bangka Regency, who hopes that mangrove planting can restore the marine biota ecosystem.
"By greening the land on the coast, we hope that the marine ecosystem can flourish because it will be easier to get shrimp, fish, and others," he said.
Likewise, the Head of Sawang Laut Village, Jefrizal, said that this mangrove planting site has quite good potential for mangroves to grow well.
In the future, he said, these mangroves can also help overcome abrasion in the area and will be managed as a new tourist location.
The existence of mangroves can also have an economic impact on society, a good mangrove ecosystem can help marine biota to develop well.
"We welcome this step by PT Timah Tbk, because this area is surrounded by sea, of course, the planting can withstand sea abrasion and can be used as a new tourism icon. Moreover, this involves many parties including the community and fishermen," he said.
Meanwhile, West Kundur District Head Yusufian, who was involved in planting hundreds of fruit trees, said that his party strongly supports planting activities to reduce pollution and make this area greener and shadier.
"This planting activity is very good, we just need to care for the seeds we plant today so they can grow and develop well, so they will provide benefits to the community," he said. (*)
