As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, the Faculty of Geological Engineering, Universitas Padjadjaran (FTG Unpad), conducted a community service program in Pananjung Village, Pangandaran, on Friday, June 28, 2024. The activity focused on raising awareness of the rich plant diversity within the Pangandaran Nature Reserve and encouraging local participation in conservation efforts.
Initially designed for students, the program was strategically redirected toward members of the local women’s group (PKK) to maximize community relevance and impact. The session was integrated with other community service initiatives focusing on circular economy and organic waste management, recognizing the pivotal role women play in community-based environmental practices.
The program commenced with opening remarks from the Head of Pananjung Village and the FTG Unpad team, followed by an educational session on plant conservation and biodiversity. Participants were introduced to the diversity of flora in the nature reserve, their ecological and economic benefits, as well as the threats posed by habitat degradation and climate change. Educational materials and interactive pamphlets helped bridge knowledge gaps, enabling participants to better understand the practical value of local plant resources in daily life.
An interactive discussion and Q&A session further enriched the learning experience. Participants shared their traditional ecological knowledge of local plants, while the FTG team emphasized the concept of sustainable utilization, highlighting that effective conservation encompasses both protection and responsible use of natural resources. This knowledge exchange strengthened community ownership of conservation efforts by integrating indigenous wisdom with contemporary scientific approaches.
The program yielded positive outcomes, with participants demonstrating increased environmental awareness and commitment to practical conservation methods, such as cultivating native species in home gardens and supporting local environmental initiatives. Participant feedback indicated that the educational materials were accessible and well-received, providing valuable insights for enhancing future community engagement programs.
Through this initiative, FTG Unpad successfully fostered greater environmental consciousness, promoted community participation in plant conservation, and encouraged sustainable practices that benefit local communities while contributing to the preservation of Pangandaran Nature Reserve’s biodiversity.
