Aquatic Natural Resources in Indonesia

Aquatic natural resources, also known as water natural resources, refer to the natural resources related to seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, rainwater, and others. Indonesia, located along the equator, boasts abundant aquatic natural wealth, including the largest coral reef in the world. This is a matter of pride for the Indonesian people as a country that has extraordinary natural beauty.

Coral reefs scattered along the coast of Indonesia play an important role in people's lives, especially for those who live in coastal areas. More than 60% of Indonesia's population live in coastal areas and are highly dependent on coral reefs as their main source of livelihood. Coral reefs are not only an abundant fishery resource but also provide other income for the surrounding community, such as the ornamental fish industry which can provide added economic value to the country. Coral reefs are also a source of foreign exchange for the Indonesian state through marine tourism businesses managed by local residents and tourism entrepreneurs.

Unfortunately, the condition of coral reefs in Indonesia is currently worrying. Coral reefs, which are home to various types of fish and other marine organisms, often suffer damage as a result of human activities such as unfriendly fishing, beach sand mining, and marine pollution. Therefore, the government, community, and industry players must work together in maintaining the survival of coral reefs, one of which is by making efforts to conserve and rehabilitate coral reefs.

Apart from coral reefs, rivers, lakes, and the sea also provide numerous benefits for human interests. Rivers serve as a source of livelihood, means of transportation, source of animal protein, and a source of irrigation for agricultural activities. Lakes or reservoirs serve as recreation areas, water irrigation for agricultural activities, and function as a hydroelectric power plant (PLTA). The sea provides seaweed for food, medicine, and cosmetic ingredients, serves as a marine tourist attraction, a source of animal protein, a medium of inter-island transportation, and can also be utilized to generate electricity using ocean waves and currents.

In conclusion, preserving the aquatic natural resources in Indonesia is essential for the country's economic growth and sustainability, as well as for the protection of marine biodiversity, which is an important part of the earth's ecosystem. It is everyone's responsibility to work towards conserving and rehabilitating these resources for future generations to enjoy.

Source: https://ipsgampang.blogspot.com/2014/08/source-daya-alam-akuatik.html