Bantul – Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability by participating in a series of coastal conservation activities, including sea turtle hatchling (tukik) release, beach clean-up, and mangrove planting, held on 4 June 2026 at Pelangi Beach and Baros Beach, Bantul. The activities formed part of the University's international conference program and served as an opportunity to strengthen environmental awareness among members of the academic community.
During the event, participants joined a beach clean-up campaign, collecting plastic waste and other debris scattered along the coastline. The initiative aimed to reduce pollution in coastal areas while raising awareness of the harmful impacts of unmanaged waste on marine ecosystems and coastal biodiversity.
"This initiative represents a concrete effort to reduce pollution along the coast while increasing public awareness that improperly managed waste can have serious consequences for marine ecosystems and the organisms that depend on them," said Prof. Didik Nurhadiyanto, Person in Charge of the UNY UIGM.
In addition to the clean-up campaign, participants planted mangrove trees as part of efforts to restore and protect coastal ecosystems. Mangroves play a vital role in stabilizing shorelines, providing habitats for diverse marine species, and improving the overall health of coastal environments. Through this activity, participants moved beyond ceremonial participation by engaging directly in hands-on environmental conservation.
Another highlight of the event was the release of sea turtle hatchlings, symbolizing support for marine wildlife conservation and the protection of coastal biodiversity. The activity also provided participants with valuable educational experiences, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats, reducing pollution, and safeguarding marine ecosystems from environmental threats.
The conservation activities were held just one day before World Environment Day, observed annually on 5 June, reinforcing the message that universities play a strategic role in fostering environmental awareness, encouraging sustainable behavior, and connecting international academic events with meaningful environmental action.
Through its participation in sea turtle hatchling releases, beach clean-up campaigns, and mangrove planting, UNY reaffirmed its commitment to protecting coastal ecosystems and promoting environmental sustainability. The University hopes that these initiatives will inspire students, academics, and the wider community to maintain cleaner environments, reduce plastic waste, and actively contribute to long-term nature conservation efforts.
