In celebration of World Environment Day, the Green Cultivation Foundation of Indonesia, in collaboration with Universitas Medan Area, organized a series of environmental activities focusing on nature conservation. The event, held on Sunday, June 9, 2024, took place in front of the Haji Maraset Mosque in Medan City, North Sumatra.
Planting of Genjah Entog Coconut Trees
The event began with the planting of Genjah Entog coconut trees along the riverbanks. This variety was chosen for its short harvesting period and its potential to generate significant economic benefits for the local community. Planting along the riverbanks also helps strengthen river edges and prevent erosion. Moreover, the vegetation surrounding water sources serves as a natural filter, improving water quality and aiding the restoration of degraded land.
River Cleaning with Eco Enzyme
Next, participants carried out a river cleaning activity using eco enzyme. Eco enzyme is a solution derived from the fermentation of organic waste that helps reduce water pollution and improve the river ecosystem. With a spirit of collaboration, participants cleaned the river near the event site, applying the eco enzyme to maintain the cleanliness and sustainability of the water.
Fish Fry Release
To support the balance of the aquatic ecosystem, the participants also released fish fry into the river. The release aims to enhance fish populations and promote the sustainability of the aquatic ecosystem. Additionally, it is expected to provide economic benefits to local communities that rely on fisheries for their livelihoods.
Release of Birds into the Wild
The final activity in this event series was the release of birds into the wild. These birds had been conserved and cared for by the Yayasan Budidaya Hijau Indonesia. The release aimed to return the birds to their natural habitat and enhance bird populations in the wild.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The event was attended by various notable figures, including:
- Mayor of Medan, Mr. Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution, S.E., M.M
- Honorary Consul of Thailand for North Sumatra, Riau, and the Riau Islands, Dr. Ir. Martono Anggusti, M.H., M.Hum
- Founder/CEO of Yayasan Budaya Hijau Indonesia, Mr. HM Surya Yusuf, SE, MSi
- Secretary-General of Yayasan RDEE Indonesia, Drg. Sulfia Rambe
- Prof. Dr. Ridha Dharmajaya, S.Ps, SPBs
- Chairman of RDEEI North Sumatra, Ir. Ramot Tobing, MM
- Head of the Environmental Agency of Medan, Muhammad Husni, SE, MSi
- Representatives from RDEEI Medan – Deli Serdang
- Head of the Agriculture and Food Security Agency of Medan, Gelora Kurnia Putra Ginting, S.STP, MM
- Acting Head of Medan’s Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Drs. Lilik, M.A.P
- Sub-district Head of West Medan, T. Roby Chairi, S.IP, M.SI
- Chief of West Medan Police Station, Commissioner Anria Rosa Piliang, S.I.K.
- Military Commander of Medan Petisah, Captain KAV Azwar
- Head of Silalas Urban Village
- Donors
- LIONS Indonesia District 037 A2; LIONS Medan Grace, Coca-Cola Euro Partnership, and RDEEI Volunteers
- Representatives from Universitas Nomensen
This collaborative event showcased a shared commitment to environmental conservation and wildlife protection, encouraging more participation from the community in preserving nature.
The Rector of Universitas Medan Area, Prof. Dr. Dadan Ramdan, M.Eng, M.Sc, represented by Dr. Dedi Sahputra, S.Sos. MA, the Vice Rector for Human Resource Quality and Economy, and Dr. Ir. Rahmad Syah, M.Kom Asean, Eng, APEC, Eng, the Vice Rector for Research, Publication, and Partnerships, expressed their appreciation for this event, stating, “We are very proud to participate in this concrete action for the environment. Through this activity, we hope to foster environmental awareness among students and the general public.”
The Chairman of Yayasan Budidaya Hijau Indonesia, Mr. HM Surya Yusuf, SE, MSi, also expressed his pride, saying, “This collaboration is a manifestation of our commitment to supporting environmental conservation programs. We hope this activity can have a sustainable positive impact on the environment and the community.”
The event commemorating World Environment Day received a warm welcome and enthusiasm from participants, volunteers, and the local community. It is hoped that similar activities can continue to be held in the future to preserve and protect Indonesia’s natural environment. Through collaborations like this, awareness of the importance of environmental conservation can be continually enhanced, ensuring the sustainability of nature for future generations.
