COASTAL DISASTER MITIGATION THROUGH CASUARINA TREE PLANTING IN PEKIK NYARING VILLAGE: AN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Central Bengkulu – May 28, 2025

As part of efforts to raise early awareness and understanding of the importance of environmental preservation and coastal disaster mitigation, a community service activity titled “Coastal Disaster Mitigation through Casuarina Tree Planting in Pekik Nyaring Village” was held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at SD Negeri 02, Pondok Kelapa Subdistrict, Central Bengkulu Regency.

This activity is part of an environmental education program aimed at elementary school students. The socialization session was delivered by Mrs. Nella Tri Agustini, S.Kel., M.Si., as the Head of the Community Service Program. She explained the importance of casuarina trees as natural protectors against coastal erosion and sea waves.

In her presentation, Mrs. Nella emphasized that coastal areas are highly vulnerable to disasters such as erosion, high waves, and seawater intrusion. Therefore, planting casuarina trees becomes a tangible and simple action that can be carried out collectively, even by children, to protect coastal environments.

The activity included not only an educational lecture but also an interactive session and hands-on practice in planting casuarina seedlings around the school environment. The children appeared enthusiastic and excited throughout the program, which is expected to foster a love for nature from an early age. This program received appreciation from the school and local community and is hoped to serve as a practical and enjoyable model of environmental learning for young generations in coastal areas