Protection of the Environment Due to Reclamation on Bungin Island, West Nusa Tenggara

Abstract

Self-help coastal reclamation by the Bajo people on Bungin Island, Sumbawa, is carried out due to limited land and high population density. Without a legal basis and adequate environmental studies, this activity damages marine ecosystems such as seagrass beds and coral reefs. This study examines (1) the form of legal protection for the environment in reclamation based on the principles of sustainable development and (2) the impacts of reclamation and efforts to enforce environmental law. The method used is empirical juridical with a sociological approach through observation and interviews. The results indicate that legal protection is ineffective due to weak oversight, low public legal awareness, and the lack of integration of reclamation with environmental regulations. Although national laws are in place, local implementation remains weak. This study recommends synergy between the government and the community, increased environmental legal literacy, and the development of local regulations based on sustainable development.