The mangrove ecosystems found in Riau and Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) play an integral role in promoting biodiversity and coastal protection in Indonesia, but decades of logging, coconut plantation expansion, aquaculture and salt production have led to significant soil erosion and land degradation in these provinces.

This reforestation project aims to plant over one million trees by 2025 to help combat climate change and strengthen the resilience of coastal landscapes in Riau and NTT.  

Home to tropical islands and beautiful beaches, the coastal regions of Riau and NTT in Indonesia support ecological diversity and the livelihoods of local communities through their intricate mangrove ecosystems.

It’s estimated that more than 20% of the entire world’s mangrove coverage is found across Indonesia, and these landscapes are critical when it comes to protecting coastlines from flooding and soil erosion, as well as sustaining liveable habitats for the diverse local species that populate these areas. 

The mangrove ecosystems found in Riau and NTT provide coastal protection and help support Indonesia’s rich biodiversity. These intricate systems help to mitigate the risks of flooding and strengthen coastal landscapes, benefiting the local environment as well as the people who call these areas home. 

In Kuala Selat, Riau, decades of logging and expanding coconut plantations have caused serious land degradation, posing a significant threat to local livelihoods and the provinces’ biodiversity. Similarly, in Pulau Rote and Malaka, NTT, years of aquaculture and salt production have affected the ecological diversity and resilience of the area. 

These practices have weakened coastlines in Riau and NTT, threatening local landscapes and communities.  

This project aims to plant over one million trees by 2025, incorporating up to 32 true mangrove species in Riau and up to 26 in NTT, as well as 120 mangrove associate species. Agroforestry crops are also being introduced to provide additional support and livelihood opportunities for local communities.

In Riau, the focus is on stabilising and restoring the coastline through hydrological repair, the planting of native species and agroforestry practices. In NTT, degraded aquaculture ponds and salt production areas are being converted into mangrove ecosystems through activities like analogue forestry and human-assisted propagule distribution.

The combination of modern restoration practices and traditional ecological knowledge supports a long-term, sustainable approach to environmental restoration in these critical areas. 

Planting thousands of trees and restoring the coastal wetlands of Riau and NTT will enhance biodiversity in these areas, combat soil erosion and strengthen the resilience of important coastal landscapes across these Indonesian provinces. 

Restoring mangrove ecosystems helps to create new habitats for diverse local species, while also supporting global climate action through increased carbon storage.  

Blue Forest employs a Community-Based Ecological Mangrove Restoration approach, engaging six villages in Riau and four in NTT. By empowering local communities and placing their participation at the centre of the project, a sense of ownership in the restored landscapes is encouraged and sustainable, long-term livelihoods are cultivated through fisheries, agroforestry, honey production and non-timber forest products. 

This project also champions gender-inclusive practices, ensuring at least 50% female participation to promote equitable involvement and benefits for local communities.