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Dugongs & Marine Ecosystems

Safeguarding Sea Cows, Nurturing Nature
Vulnerable
Cempedak Island, Indonesia
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Project Summary

Dugongs are shy, slow-moving marine mammals often referred to as “sea cows” because of their dependence on seagrass meadows for survival. Tragically, these peaceful creatures are under threat from habitat loss, marine pollution, and human disturbance. 

In response, our partners, YIARI have launched an ambitious project to protect dugongs and the ecosystems they call home.

Local Partner: YIARI

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Project aims and impact:

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The Full Story

Our partners YIARI, local grassroots organisation WeBe, and the Marine and Fisheries Development Agency (BPSPL) have united to protect dugongs and their marine habitats. Together, they are working to conserve one of the ocean’s most gentle and elusive mammals while empowering coastal communities through education, outreach, and sustainable development. 

At the heart of the project is the Maritime Learning Centre (Pusat Pembelajaran Bahari) on Cempedak Island, which acts as a hub for environmental education. Here, local children and young people explore the underwater world and learn about the vital role that coastal ecosystems play not only for dugongs but for the planet. The Centre promotes awareness of seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and mangrove forests, all of which provide food, shelter, and nursery grounds for marine species. 

The project recognises that dugong conservation cannot happen in isolation. Seagrass meadows, which dugongs rely on, are among the world’s most effective natural carbon sinks, helping mitigate climate change by storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Protecting these meadows is therefore a win-win for biodiversity and climate action. 

Looking ahead, the partnership aims to expand its efforts with: 

  • Habitat protection and restoration of critical seagrass and mangrove areas 
  • Sustainable livelihood programmes for local people that reduce reliance on destructive marine practices 
  • Stronger community engagement and outreach, especially with schools and young leaders 
  • Monitoring and research to understand dugong populations and their movements 

By supporting this project, you’re helping to protect one of the ocean’s most vulnerable mammals and investing in the wellbeing of coastal communities and the future of our planet. 

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