As part of its commitment to advancing a conservation-focused vision and promoting the internationalization of education, the Geography Study Program of Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), in collaboration with National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), conducted a field orientation through a mangrove planting activity along the Mangunharjo coastal area in Semarang on Friday (6/13). The event brought together six lecturers and 25 students from NTNU, as well as faculty members and students from UNNES Geography, with support from the local partner group, Kelompok Tani Mangrove Lestari.
This mangrove planting initiative served not only as an environmental action but also as a field-based educational opportunity for both international and local students. It emphasized the importance of protecting coastal zones from threats such as abrasion and ecosystem degradation. Mangunharjo was selected due to its vulnerability to environmental deterioration caused by climate change and human activities. Through hands-on involvement, participants were encouraged to recognize coastal preservation as a critical component of sustainable development efforts.
The activity directly supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 13 (Climate Action), Goal 14 (Life Below Water), and Goal 15 (Life on Land). As an example of ecosystem-based adaptation, mangrove planting not only fortifies the coastline but also fosters cross-cultural awareness of the need for collaborative environmental stewardship. As a conservation-oriented university, UNNES continues to demonstrate its commitment to cultivating a generation of environmentally conscious, well-informed, and action-oriented youth dedicated to securing a more sustainable future for the planet.