When Paradise Turns Grey: Quantifying Blue Carbon Loss and Its Implications for Sustainable Coastal Tourism in Raja Ampat, Indonesia Rois Dinan (a*), MH. Nateq Nouri (b)
a) Department of Tourism Destination, Makassar Tourism Polytechnic
Jalan Gunung Rinjani No.1, Makassar 0224, Indonesia
*roisdinan[at]poltekparmakassar.ac.id
b) School of Architecture, Planning & Policy Development, Bandung Institute of Technology
Jalan Ganesha 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
nateqoik[at]gmail.com
Abstract
Raja Ampat, globally recognized for its exceptional marine biodiversity, faces growing environmental pressure from the expansion of nickel mining activities in its coastal zones. This study aims to quantify blue carbon loss and evaluate its implications for sustainable coastal tourism. The core analytical framework employs a carbon capture estimation analysis using remote sensing data to assess temporal changes in ecosystem carbon dynamics between 2017 and 2024. The analysis integrates NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), NDMI (Normalized Difference Moisture Index), and land cover classification to determine the degree of vegetation degradation and the decline in carbon sequestration capacity. Results reveal a substantial decrease in carbon capture potential and a corresponding rise in emissions, particularly within areas directly affected by mining operations. These findings illustrate the critical trade offs between extractive development and conservation oriented tourism. The study emphasizes the necessity of incorporating blue carbon monitoring and carbon capture assessment into sustainable tourism planning frameworks. Strengthening coastal ecosystem governance and promoting low-carbon tourism strategies are essential to safeguard Raja Ampat^s ecological integrity and preserve its status as a global benchmark for marine sustainability.
Keywords: Please Just TrBlue Carbon, Carbon Capture Estimation Analysis, Remote Sensing, Sustainable Coastal Tourismy to Submit This Sample Abstract
Topic: Technological and Scientific Innovation in Coastal Cities
