The suitability and carrying capacity analysis of the mangrove ecosystem to support ecotourism in the Paljaya mangrove restoration and learning center, Bekasi Regency, Indonesia

Research Center for Ecology and Ethnobiology, National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia, Cibinong, 16911.

^* Corresponding author: vare001@brin.go.id

Abstract

One of the ecosystem services provided by the mangrove ecosystem is cultural service, which provides the benefits of recreation, aesthetics, and spirituality. The utilization of mangrove ecosystems, which can preserve and maintain the ecosystem, is through scientific research, education, and ecotourism. Ecotourism is a tourist activity that can Support the sustainability of using natural resources because it prioritizes natural resources over tourist facilities. This research aims to determine mangrove ecosystems’ suitability and carrying capacity for developing mangrove ecotourism. It was conducted from August until September 2022 at the Paljaya Mangrove Restoration and Learning Centre (MRLC), Segarajaya Village, Bekasi Regency. Data analysis was performed using the Tourism Suitability Index (TSI) and an assessment of the Carrying Capacity of the Region (CCR) to ensure the maximum capacity of the MRLC area in accommodating visitors at a particular time. The TSI value obtained from this study is 2.09 and is included in the Suitable category for ecotourism development. The length of the bridge for the mangrove tracking area is 230 m, with the area’s carrying capacity being 37 people/day. Therefore, recommendations that can be made in policy making are to increase mangrove planting activities and maintain mangrove sustainability.