BNI Strengthens Environmental and Coastal Economic Commitments on World Mangrove Day

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, or BNI, has renewed its commitment to preserving coastal ecosystems and supporting local economies through mangrove rehabilitation efforts. This initiative, highlighted on World Mangrove Day observed annually on July 26, is a key component of BNI's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy.

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, BNI Berbagi, the bank has planted an impressive 258,000 mangrove seedlings over the last eight years. These efforts have been concentrated in several vital coastal regions across Indonesia, including Mempawah in West Kalimantan, Kebumen in Central Java, the Thousand Islands in DKI Jakarta, and Banyuwangi and Pamekasan in East Java.

Okki Rushartomo, Corporate Secretary of BNI, explained that mangrove rehabilitation is central to BNI's strategy for building coastal resilience using Nature-based Solutions (NbS). This approach aligns with the transformation goals of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) under Danantara Indonesia, which prioritizes sustainable value creation for the community and national economy.

"Mangrove conservation not only restores coastal ecosystems but also creates new livelihoods for the community," Rushartomo stated. "Therefore, we involve farmer groups and residents from seedling to planting, and even in developing ecotourism and mangrove-processed products, ensuring the benefits of conservation are directly felt."

The environmental benefits of mangroves are significant, including acting as natural carbon sinks and providing crucial protection against coastal erosion, high waves, and rising sea levels. They also serve as vital habitats for marine life, supporting fisheries and maintaining the sustainability of coastal resources. BNI's approach extends these benefits by fostering mangrove-based economic activities, from ecotourism to product development, thereby enhancing the welfare of coastal communities. An evaluation in Banyuwangi showed a Community Satisfaction Index (IKM) of 84.09 percent, indicating high public appreciation for the program's execution and benefits.

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Mangrove conservation not only restores coastal ecosystems but also creates new livelihoods for the community. Therefore, we involve farmer groups and residents from seedling to planting, and even in developing ecotourism and mangrove-processed products, ensuring the benefits of conservation are directly felt.