The Department of Development Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Negeri Semarang (FEB UNNES), proudly announces the publication of an international research article highlighting an innovative approach to sustainable agricultural development. The study introduces TongTang (Potato Bag), a jute-based innovation that serves a dual purpose as an erosion control technology and a cultivation medium for potato farming on terraced land. This innovation offers a practical solution to land degradation while supporting sustainable agricultural productivity and rural economic development.
The research evaluates the sustainability of the TongTang innovation using a multidimensional assessment framework adapted from the Rapid Appraisal for Fisheries (RAPFISH) methodology. The analysis examines five key dimensions of sustainability—ecological, economic, social, technological, and institutional—to determine the long-term feasibility and effectiveness of the innovation.
Data were collected from 26 respondents representing farmers, industry partners, and academics through structured questionnaires. The results indicate an overall sustainability index of 51.7, classifying TongTang as moderately sustainable. Among the five dimensions, the ecological aspect achieved the highest score, followed by technology, while the economic and institutional dimensions were identified as priority areas for future improvement.
The study also confirms the robustness of the sustainability assessment model through high statistical reliability. Sensitivity analysis identified several key factors influencing sustainability performance, including increased soil organic matter, improved root-zone microenvironment, greater participation of women in farming activities, and higher farmer income. Furthermore, Monte Carlo analysis demonstrated that the ecological and technological dimensions remain relatively stable under uncertainty, whereas social and institutional aspects require stronger policy support and stakeholder collaboration.
The findings demonstrate that sustainable agricultural innovation should be viewed not only from a technological perspective but also through broader socio-economic and institutional lenses. By integrating circular economy principles with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), TongTang represents an innovative development model capable of reducing environmental degradation while simultaneously improving agricultural productivity, strengthening farmer livelihoods, and supporting long-term rural resilience.
This publication reflects the Department of Development Economics’ commitment to conducting interdisciplinary research that addresses pressing development challenges through innovation, sustainability, and evidence-based policy. The research provides valuable recommendations for governments, development agencies, agricultural practitioners, and local communities seeking effective strategies for sustainable land management and inclusive rural development.
The study contributes directly to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by promoting sustainable agricultural production and strengthening food security through improved potato cultivation systems. The research advances SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by utilizing biodegradable jute materials within a circular economy framework. It also contributes to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by mitigating soil erosion and enhancing climate resilience in agricultural landscapes, while supporting SDG 15 (Life on Land) through sustainable land management and ecosystem conservation. In addition, the study aligns with SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by highlighting the importance of women’s participation in agricultural innovation and rural development, and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through its emphasis on increasing farmers’ income and creating more sustainable economic opportunities in rural communities.
Through internationally recognized publications, the Department of Development Economics FEB UNNES continues to strengthen its contribution to global research on sustainable development by generating innovative solutions that integrate environmental protection, agricultural resilience, and inclusive economic growth. This achievement reinforces the department’s commitment to producing impactful research that supports evidence-based policymaking and sustainable development at local, national, and global levels.