Yogyakarta, June 10th 2025 – A strategic collaboration of a higher education institution and a civil society organization has once again yielded a positive impact on the environment. The Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), through its Environmental Science Master Program and partnership with the Yogyakarta Conservation Action Foundation (Fourkey Yogyakarta), successfully organized a series of activities titled “Funtastic Without Plastic: Save Nature for the Future” on Saturday, May 31st 2025. This event was part of the commemoration of World Environment Day 2025, which carries the global theme, “Ending Plastic Pollution.”
This activity specifically highlighted the “Ending Plastic Pollution” theme with a focus on concrete actions in the coastal area of Bantul. The series began with a scientific seminar located at Parangtritis Geomaritime Science Park. The seminar featured government experts, Dr. Ir. Ammy Nurwati, M.M., Secretary of the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE) of the Ministry of Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia, as well as community practitioners, Daru Aji Saputra S.Si., Founder of Fourkey Yogyakarta. They shared comprehensive insights on biodiversity conservation challenges and the role of the younger generation in preserving coastal ecosystems. The dynamic discussion was moderated by Dr. Priyaji Agung Pambudi, S.Pd., M.Si., Lecturer of the UGM Environmental Sciences Master Program, and was attended by 200 participants in a hybrid format, both directly on-site and online. The selection of Parangtritis as the seminar location emphasized the urgency of plastic pollution problems in coastal ecosystems.
The culmination of this series of activities was an environmental care action involving 150 participants at Pelangi Beach. The close cooperation between UGM and Fourkey Yogyakarta was evident in the implementation of this program, demonstrating an effective model of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. This action was designed with three main components to support integrated coastal ecosystem conservation: Firstly, Beach Cleanup, where participants were directly involved in cleaning plastic waste on Pelangi Beach. This action not only reduced physical pollution but also served as direct education about the long-term impact of plastic on marine ecosystems. This initiative was aligned with the global theme of World Environment Day 2025 and supported SDG 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production.
Second, as a step in coastal ecosystem restoration, 400 pandan laut seedlings were planted. This planting plays a vital role in preventing beach erosion, maintaining coastline stability, and providing habitat for various coastal fauna species. This activity significantly contributed to SDG 13 on Climate Action through increased carbon absorption capacity, and supported SDG 15 on Life on Land in efforts to restore land degradation and protect coastal biodiversity.
Third, the peak moment was the release of 90 hatchlings. This symbolized a long-term commitment to the conservation of endangered species. The release of hatchlings directly supported SDG 14 on Life Below Water through efforts to protect marine biodiversity and prevent species extinction, while also being an investment in the sustainability of the turtle population in Indonesian waters.
The success of “Funtastic Without Plastic: Save Nature for the Future” underscored the effectiveness of a holistic approach that combined scientific knowledge from the government’s perspective (Dr. Ammy Nurwati) and practical experience from civil society organizations (Daru Aji Saputra). This collaboration is expected not only to inspire other educational institutions in developing innovative programs for sustainable development but also to provide direct benefits to the local community of Bantul with improved coastal environmental quality and the potential for sustainable ecotourism development.
The Master of Environmental Sciences Study Program at UGM Graduate School reaffirmed its commitment to continuously contribute to environmental preservation through postgraduate education, research, and community service. This also strengthens Indonesia’s position in addressing the climate crisis and plastic pollution.
Author: Berlian Belasuni