UMS Students Care for Enviroment: Insect Exploration and Garbage Cleanup

Driven by their passion for nature conservation, Biology Education students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) embarked on a three-day expedition to the Pangandaran Nature Reserve from November 13 to 15, 2023. Their activities centered on exploring the reserve’s insect diversity and cleaning up Pangandaran Beach.

The Pangandaran Nature Reserve is a designated protected area meticulously managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) under the guidance of the Ministry of Environment. This sanctuary is a vital haven for biodiversity, ensuring its continued growth and natural development.

There are at least five ecosystems in Pangandaran Nature Reserve: lowland tropical rainforest, mangrove forest, grassland, and marine.

Led by seven supervisors, a group of 77 enthusiastic Biology Education students from UMS explored the Pangandaran Nature Reserve to delve into its biological treasures and the vibrant life of its biota. They observed and documented diverse insect species thriving in grassland and tropical forest ecosystems. This exploration involved traversing grasslands and tropical forests to gather valuable observations.

The Head of the Activity Implementation Team, Dr. Triastuti Rahayu, S.Si., M.Si., realized the importance of maintaining environmental sustainability. Therefore, this activity is expected to give students a deeper understanding of the role of insects in natural ecosystems.

“We are aware of the importance of maintaining environmental sustainability. With this activity, we hope to make a positive contribution to Pangandaran Nature Reserve while educating students and the surrounding community,” said Triastuti in her speech.

The Pangandaran KSDA Head, Kusnadi, S.P., wholeheartedly welcomed this initiative, extending his full support for the activities conducted within the Pangandaran Nature Reserve. He commended the project’s significance in educating students about natural resource conservation and fostering research on the untapped potential of natural resources in Pangandaran.

“We hope that this field study activity could become a regular collaborative endeavor between UMS Biology Education and KSDA Pangandaran,” said Kusnadi.

Expanding their efforts beyond insect and biota exploration, the UMS Biology Education Team undertook a garbage cleanup activity within the Pangandaran Nature Reserve and along Pangandaran Beach. This initiative reflects the deep concern of UMS Biology Education students and lecturers for environmental cleanliness. The collected waste consisted primarily of inorganic materials, such as plastic waste. The gathered plastic waste was disposed of responsibly following established inorganic waste disposal guidelines.

Further extending their impact, the UMS Biology Education Team engaged the local community through socialization and education programs, highlighting the significance of maintaining a clean environment. Additionally, UMS Biology Education students interacted with nature reserve visitors, sharing valuable insights into the region’s rich biodiversity.

By embarking on this initiative, UMS Biology Education students pursued educational prowess and stepped into the role of guardian of natural ecosystems. Their commitment to environmental conservation inspires and ignites hope that other educational institutions will follow suit and actively engage their students in safeguarding our planet’s precious ecosystems.

Writer: Yasir Siddiq

Editor: Gede Arga Adrian

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid