The Seribu Islands Environmental Sub-agency has transformed bamboo waste into an underwater art installation in Panggang Island Urban Village, Seribu Utara Islands District. This innovation was implemented through a technical guidance program on coastal waste management to support marine ecosystem conservation and develop marine tourism.

Head of the Sub-agency, Achmad Hariadi said this activity aims to increase the utility value of waste while encouraging the community to see coastal waste as a material that can still be used.

"We process bamboo waste that was previously considered worthless through an assembly workshop into an underwater art installation," he said, Tuesday (10/13).

Achmad explained that the bamboo gate-shaped installation embodies the concept of living underwater art. Besides its aesthetic value, the installation is designed to provide shelter and a gathering place for marine life.

To ensure environmental safety, the bamboo is first sorted and cleaned of nails, wire, and any adhering inorganic residue. Installation must also undergo technical studies and material safety testing to ensure its suitability for aquatic environments.

"Ecological monitoring is carried out periodically to ensure that the installation is safe and does not disrupt the aquatic ecosystem," he explained.

He hopes this innovative bamboo waste utilization can be developed in other regions with different concepts. Besides helping manage coastal waste, this effort is expected to support the development of a blue economy in the Seribu Islands.

Meanwhile, Head of Panggang Island Urban Village, Jamaluddin admitted collaboration between the government, cleaning staff, and environmental communities can increase public awareness of the cleanliness of coastal areas.

"We hope that this activity will increase public awareness of maintaining environmental cleanliness while opening up opportunities for developing marine tourism on Panggang Island," he hoped.