The Socio-Ecological System of Coral Reef Conservation in Gorontalo Bay

Et Al., Hasim

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2025.413556.6401

The Socio-Ecological System of Coral Reef Conservation in Gorontalo Bay

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Hasim et al.

10.21608/ejabf.2025.413556.6401

Abstract

Coral reef ecosystems in Gorontalo Bay face significant socio-ecological pressures arising from environmental degradation and the strong economic dependence of coastal communities on marine resources. Conventional biological and physical conservation approaches have proven inadequate to address this complexity. This study explores the key socio-ecological attributes that determine conservation success and develops a contextual, inclusive conceptual framework grounded in the social-ecological systems (SES) approach. A mixed-methods exploratory sequential design was employed, combining in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and questionnaire surveys of 60 respondents. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative leverage analysis across seven SES elements. The results show that the attributes with the highest leverage are: (1) coral reef health as a foundation of community well-being, (2) livelihood dependence on the sea, and (3) understanding of conservation zoning. These findings highlight the need to integrate social resilience, cultural values, and adaptive governance into conservation strategies. Active community participation and the involvement of local leaders were found to strengthen conservation effectiveness by fostering collective norms and promoting ecological awareness. In conclusion, conservation success depends not only on ecological conditions but also on the social capacity to adapt and engage. This study makes a strategic contribution to the design of transformative and sustainable community-based conservation policies.

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