Evaluating Carbon Stocks (2020-2023) in Rhizophora mucronata Plantations under the PHE ONWJ REMAJA Program in Pantai Bahagia Villages, Bekasi Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

This study evaluates the carbon storage potential of Rhizophora mucronata plantations as part of the North Java Coast Mangrove Restoration Program (REMAJA) implemented by PT. Pertamina Hulu Energi Offshore North West Java (PHE ONWJ) in Pantai Bahagia Village, Bekasi Regency. A total of 8,000 mangrove seedlings were planted in 2020, and the diameter growth and carbon stock were monitored from 2020 to 2023. The monitoring process involved measuring the trunk diameter of the mangrove, combined with allometric equations to estimate biomass. Carbon sequestration was calculated by applying conversion factors to the biomass values, allowing the quantification of stored carbon. This method provides an accurate assessment of the mangrove’s role in carbon sequestration over time. The results showed that the survival rate of Rhizophora mucronata seedlings was exceptionally high, averaging over 98%. The total carbon stock increased annually, reaching 15.59 tons of carbon (C) in 2023, 9.57 tons in AGC, and 6.02 tons in BGC. The result represents a significant increase compared to previous years, with an additional 5.14 tons of carbon compared to 2022, 13.75 tons more than in 2021, and 15.01 tons more than in 2020. Based on these results, the carbon dioxide sequestration contribution of R. mucronata during the periods of 2020-2021, 2021-2022, and 2022-2023 was 4.62 tons CO2e, 31.58 tons CO2e, and 18.83 tons CO2e, respectively. In conclusion, the R. mucronata plantation under this program significantly enhanced carbon stocks, supporting climate change mitigation through long-term carbon storage. This program demonstrates that mangrove rehabilitation can play a crucial role in protecting coastal ecosystems and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.