The Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya (UB) carried out International Community Service to Secang Independent Ecoliteracy Community (MEM) group in Secang Village, Kalipuro District, Banyuwangi Regency. This activity, which collaborated with the International Summer Course team of the Department of Biology UB, was held on Monday, May 6 2024 and was attended by 14 local coffee farmers.
The event was opened by the Head of the Community Service Team, Mufidah Afiyanti, S.P, Ph.D. She said that the aim of this activity is to support the protection of terrestrial biodiversity, including plant and animal species, restoration of damaged habitats, and control of invasive species, which are some of the efforts that can be made to maintain the sustainability of terrestrial ecosystems (SDGs 15).
In this activity, there was a presentation of research results by participants of the 2024 International Summer Course, as well as carrying out small biodiversity projects in organic and semi-organic coffee plantations, especially in coffee plantations belonging to the MEM group.
“Observations and efforts to save biodiversity are important to face world challenges, especially in slowing the rate of global warming,” said Mufidah Afiyanti.
The research carried out included types of wild plants that are invasive and have the potential to become weeds for coffee plants, types of insects that act as pests, as well as other insects that have the potential to become natural enemies, and the impact of human activities on water quality in Sumber Manis and its streams. .
“Through the results of this research, the participants provided recommendations for a healthier and more sustainable coffee growing system so that it can increase productivity and the economic value of coffee,” continued Mufidah.
Several other suggestions put forward by Summer Course participants were adding types of fruit plants that could increase garden income other than coffee or using an intercropping system as is done by some farmers. In addition, the use of chemical fertilizers can be replaced with organic fertilizers such as manure. The lecturers also took part in providing suggestions for planting several refugia plants which can become habitat for natural enemies for coffee plant pests.
The activity continued with a discussion session led by Dr. Muhammad Yusuf. The farmers enthusiastically asked questions, one of whom was Mrs. Rika who was interested in implementing a fully organic farming system even though currently she still uses chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
“Discussions regarding the problems faced by farmers on coffee plantations together with lecturers and Summer Course participants went well. People gain new knowledge regarding biodiversity in terms of insects and plants and the benefits of this diversity for the sustainability of their coffee plantations,” explained Mufidah.
The farmers really appreciate this socialization and hope that the program will continue in the coming year. Mr. Imron, one of the farmers who applies an organic system, is also very open to accepting students who want to do coffee research. [Bio/Irene/ UB PR/ Trans. Iir]
