Over the past weeks, the different parts of our project in Cemare have started to come together more clearly. What began with understanding the local situation and observing how the community interacts with the mangrove has now developed into concrete results that are ready to be used in the village.
A major focus of our work has been improving waste separation. Cemare Eco Green already produces compost that is sold to farmers nearby, but waste from surrounding villages still enters the mangroves through rivers and ocean currents. To support the existing system, the new waste bins are now completed and ready to be placed around the village. The compost bags and stickers with information about the recycle process are also finished. These materials, along with the waste separation signs, make the system easier to understand for the community.
We are also working on the educational signs for the boardwalk. These signs will explain the mangrove ecosystem, the species that live in the area and the impact of waste on the environment. The designs are in progress, and we aim to finalise them soon so they can be installed during the eco-tour.
At the same time, we have been working on strengthening the eco-tour, which is run by community members through Cemare Eco Green. The tour has strong educational value, but until recently the capacity was limited because only two kayaks were available. The three new kayaks that were built over the past weeks are now ready for use, and we will test them together with Eco Green this week. With more kayaks, the community hopes to offer tours more frequently and give visitors a better experience in the mangroves.
Meanwhile, preparations for Coral Connect 2025 are entering their final stage. The event is now only eight days away. With the programme finalised, we are focusing on the remaining tasks such as completing materials, planning logistics and preparing communication for the three-day event. Coral Connect will bring together communities, students, researchers and volunteers to exchange knowledge and highlight coastal conservation efforts.
With the waste materials completed, the kayaks ready, the boardwalk signs in progress and Coral Connect approaching, the project in Cemare is starting to take full shape. The coming weeks will be about testing, adjustments and working closely with the community to ensure everything is ready.
UPDATE II: Waste Management and EcoTourism Lombok
