Restoring Maluku’s Coast: Action-Driven Beach Cleanups, Mangrove Planting, and Coral Renewal in Ambon by the Faculty of Medicine, University of Pattimura

Abstract

Maluku, Indonesia’s archipelagic province, is predominantly maritime, with 92.4% ocean coverage. Its capital, Ambon, faces environmental challenges such as plastic waste accumulation, mangrove depletion, and coral reef degradation. Coastal areas, especially Ambon Bay, suffer from significant litter, predominantly plastic waste, leading to a “Very Dirty” classification by the Clean Coast Index. Mangrove forests, vital for shoreline protection and carbon sequestration, have declined by 2.98 hectares annually due to land conversion and human activity. Similarly, coral reefs have deteriorated over the past 35 years due to sedimentation and waste. The Faculty of Medicine at Universitas Pattimura plays a key role in environmental conservation efforts, including organized beach cleanups, mangrove planting, and coral reef restoration. These activities are integral to their curriculum, particularly through the Island Doctor program, which emphasizes marine and island health. Regular cleanups remove significant debris, while mangrove and coral restoration projects focus on long-term ecosystem rehabilitation. Despite challenges, these initiatives foster community awareness and demonstrate the potential for reversing environmental damage through coordinated action. This chapter highlights these conservation efforts and their impact on Maluku’s coastal ecosystems.