Community-Based Coral Reef Conservation and Its Potential Linkage to Climate Change Mitigation: A Qualitative Study in Clungup Mangrove Conservation, Malang, Indonesia

Zaenudin Ali (State University Of Malang)
Genito Fernandes Xavier (State University Of Malang)
Nur Mala Sari (State University Of Malang)
Tuti Mutia (State University Of Malang)

JPG (Jurnal Pendidikan Geografi)
Vol 13, No 2 (2026)

This study examines community-based coral reef conservation practices and their potential contribution to climate change mitigation in the Clungup Mangrove Conservation (CMC) area, Malang, Indonesia. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed to explore community participation in marine ecosystem conservation. The study was conducted in May 2025 at the CMC area, selected purposively due to its established community-based coastal conservation initiatives. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with four key informants, consisting of a conservation area manager, a community leader, a local government representative, and a community member actively involved in conservation programs. Participatory observation was also conducted during coral transplantation, environmental monitoring, coastal patrols, and environmental education activities. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis involving transcription, open coding, category development, theme identification, and interpretation. Data validity was ensured through source triangulation, method triangulation, and member checking. The findings indicate that community participation plays an important role in supporting coral reef conservation through restoration, monitoring, environmental education, and conservation-based ecotourism activities. The conservation program has contributed to observable improvements in reef conditions and strengthened environmental awareness among local communities. Furthermore, the integration of coral reef conservation with mangrove and seagrass management supports coastal ecosystem resilience and enhances the area's potential as a blue carbon ecosystem. Community involvement also strengthens local adaptive capacity in responding to climate-related environmental changes. These findings suggest that community-based conservation can support ecosystem-based approaches to climate change mitigation and sustainable coastal resource management through collaborative governance involving communities, government institutions, non-governmental organizations, and academic partners.