November 4, 2024, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Udayana University, PT Taman Benoa Eksotik (Bali Exotic Marine Park), and the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency launched a sustainable financing initiative for marine megafauna conservation on the coast of Bali. This event aims to build a sustainable financing system that supports efforts to protect marine ecosystems and megafauna species, including turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, and various other marine mammals that live in Bali’s waters.
Bali is known for its stunning marine biodiversity. Studies from various parties, including Conservation International and Udayana University, show that Bali’s waters are an important habitat for many megafauna species. However, the rapid development of tourism and marine pollution are significant threats to the sustainability of this ecosystem. Synergy between various parties is needed to overcome this problem and maintain the ecological integrity of Bali’s coast.
Multi-sector Commitment and Collaboration
This initiative is based on the concept of “sharing costs and benefits” to ensure conservation that is economically viable, socially acceptable, and environmentally sound. The parties are committed to:
- Increase the effectiveness of marine megafauna conservation efforts through stable financing.
- Build public awareness of the importance of marine protection.
- Develop a conservation policy framework together with government and academics
See Also: Bali Exotic Marine Park Collaborates with Hasanuddin University
Event Highlights – Marine Megafauna Conservation
The event was filled with a series of important activities:
- Opening and Welcome: Speeches from government officials and academics who play an important role in environmental conservation.
- Conservation Policy Presentation: Presentation from the Director General of KSDAE and the Head of Bali Region regarding the conservation regulatory framework.
- Multi-Stakeholder Workshop: Discussion between government, academics, private institutions, and conservation to discuss financing mechanisms.
Inauguration of the Megafauna Conservation Fund: The symbolic launch of the fund by the Director General of KSDAE, the Acting Governor of Bali, and the Chancellor of Udayana University (TOR Sustainable Finance).
The launch of this fund is expected to be a strategic step in preserving Bali’s marine megafauna. With the support and commitment of various parties, BEMP‘s effort is expected to be a model for similar initiatives in other regions and create a sustainable marine environment in Bali.