Tin, Ponds, Mangroves, and Tourism on Bangka Coast: The Dilemma of Money and Conservation

Abstract

The extensive expansion of tin mining in Bangka Island and a small part of the open sea is causing environmental damage in coastal areas. In recent years, the damage has been increased by the opening of shrimp ponds, leading to the reduction of mangrove areas and the disturbance of coastal tourism assets. Therefore, this study aims to explore the dilemma between the economic activities of tin mining and shrimp pond openings in coastal areas through qualitative methods using interviews, observations, and documentation. Investors manage tin and shrimp pond potentials by compensating residents. In contrast, the residents have predominantly accepted tin mining as primary employment, serving as an alternative economic opportunity for individuals previously engaged with the company. Furthermore, mangrove areas experience habitat destruction and a decrease in coastal support capacity. Tourism assets and potentials are also disrupted because of the reduction in the naturalness of coast and the disturbance of coastal habitat ecosystems. The results show that the persistence of the dilemma is due to inadequate law enforcement measures and the impartiality of village officials. Consequently, the situation remains stagnant since the parties maintain divergent perspectives without reaching an agreement. Making money and conserving is still a big challenge in saving the environment, especially when each actor chooses not to take a firm position.