Kupu-kupu - Indonesia Blue Carbon
The Kupu-kupu project integrates mangrove rehabilitation with community empowerment and fish pond productivity in South Sulawesi, Indonesia.
The Kupu Kupu Project is a collaborative initiative between local fisher groups, Manggala Karbon Indonesia (MKI), and Vlinder, focused on integrating mangrove rehabilitation with sustainable fish farming in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. In response to requests from local aquaculture communities, the project supports silvofishery systems where mangroves are planted amongst fish ponds to improve ecological and economic outcomes.
Project type
Blue Carbon
Area
30,000
Emission removal capacity
42 million t
Challenges
Mangrove deforestation in Indonesia is closely tied to the intersection of global market demand and local land-use practices—particularly the expansion of shrimp and fish aquaculture. Driven by international demand and supported by national policies in the 1980s that promoted aquaculture following a ban on trawl fishing, this shift has had significant ecological and socio-economic impacts.
In South Sulawesi, this transition dramatically altered coastal landscapes. Between 1979 and 2011, more than 66% of mangrove cover was lost, primarily due to the development of fish ponds. These aquaculture ponds still shape the region today. Some remain in use for farming species like milkfish, crabs, and shrimp, while others have been abandoned due to the accumulation of waste products.
Despite these challenges, the ponds remain vital to local livelihoods. According to local knowledge, 80–90% of aquaculture yields are sold for income, rather than used for subsistence, making them a key economic resource for coastal communities.
Solution
Together with community farmer groups, MKI and Vlinder have identified 60,000 hectares of aquaculture ponds suitable for restoration. Through the Kupu-kupu project, 50% of these ponds will be replanted with mangrove seedlings by local communities. These mangroves are projected to sequester approximately 42 million metric tons of CO₂ over 40 years, contributing meaningfully to global climate mitigation goals.
Beyond carbon capture, mangroves offer additional ecological benefits: their ability to absorb salt, nitrates, ammonia, and phosphates improves pond water quality, enhancing the overall health and productivity of aquaculture systems. Healthier ponds mean higher fish yields, ultimately leading to increased income for local fish farmers.
Partner
Manggala Karbon Indonesia (MKI) is the Project Technical and Operational Partner, bringing essential local expertise and strong implementation capacity to the initiative. With a deep understanding of the environmental and socio-economic landscape of South Sulawesi, MKI plays a central role in ensuring the project’s success on the ground.
MKI leads community engagement efforts and supports the integration of sustainable practices throughout the project. Their involvement is key to aligning project goals with the needs and aspirations of local communities—fostering ownership, long-term commitment, and lasting impact.
Documents
Project documentation |