Exploring Edible Forest Plants: Dr. Guswarni Anwar at IOP Environmental Science Conference
Dr. Guswarni Anwar, a lecturer at the Doctoral Program in Natural Resource Management (PSDA), Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bengkulu, recently participated in the IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science.
Dr. Guswarni presented her research entitled “Diversity and Abundance of Edible Plants as Non-Timber Forest Products in Kerinci Seblat National Park, Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu Province.” Her study focuses on the ecological and socio-economic importance of edible plants collected from natural forests, highlighting their potential as sustainable resources for local communities while contributing to biodiversity conservation.
The seminar was held under the subtheme of Agriculture, Animal Sciences, Agroforestry, and Agromaritime Innovation, which explores the integration of traditional practices and modern technologies to promote sustainable food production, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic development. The agriculture focus emphasizes optimizing crop and livestock production while balancing efficiency with ecological care. Animal sciences address breeding, nutrition, and welfare to enhance productivity and humane livestock management. Agroforestry combines trees with crops or livestock to conserve soil, boost biodiversity, and strengthen ecosystem resilience, while agromaritime innovation expands food production to marine and coastal systems, supporting aquaculture, seaweed farming, and sustainable blue economy initiatives. Together, these fields provide a holistic, sustainable approach to managing natural resources and ensuring food security for future generations.
Through this international conference, Dr. Guswarni shared insights with fellow researchers, environmental scientists, and practitioners, emphasizing the role of non-timber forest products in promoting sustainable forest management and supporting the livelihoods of communities in Bengkulu Province.
Participation in such conferences reflects the active role of PSDA lecturers in advancing research, knowledge exchange, and environmental conservation initiatives, reinforcing the University of Bengkulu’s commitment to addressing regional and global environmental challenges.
