World Environment Day: UMBRA Launches Sustainability, Carbon, and Climate Change Initiative Division by Participating in Mangrove Planting
Introduction
We are happy to present our 2024 CSR initiatives: the planting of mangrove trees in Desa Muara Baru Village in Karawang, West Java (2024 Mangrove Planting Initiative). The initiative was carried out in collaboration with Association of Carbon Experts Indonesia (ACEXI) to support Ikatan Alumni Teknik Lingkungan Institut Teknologi Bandung (IATL-ITB) and PT Pertamina EP, in their mangrove planting program, ‘Gerakan Tanam Pohon Satu Bumi 2024’.
Simultaneously, this event, which coincided with World Environment Day celebration, is also part of the launching event of UMBRA’s Sustainability, Carbon, and Climate Change Initiative Division. By embedding sustainability into our legal practice, we hope to drive positive environmental impact and support our clients in their sustainability initiatives. These events underscore our commitment to environmental sustainability and our proactive approach to addressing global environmental challenges and reaffirms our commitment to responsible business practices.
The Importance of Mangroves
The mangrove forests in Muara Baru Village are indispensable to the local ecosystem and communities, serving multiple vital roles. These coastal trees are not only vital for protecting shorelines from erosion but also serve as a significant carbon sinks. Mangrove forests store up to four times more carbon than tropical forests, making them a powerful ally in the fight against climate change. Additionally, they provide critical habitats for marine life, support fisheries and provide protection from extreme weather events for the local communities. By preserving and expanding mangrove forests, we can effectively reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, mitigate global warming, and provide essential means and protection for the nearby communities.
Despite their ecological importance and value, mangrove forests face serious risks from deforestation, climate change, and coastal development. In collaboration with ACEXI and supporting the ‘Gerakan Tanam Pohon Satu Bumi 2024’ program, UMBRA’s 2024 Mangrove Planting Initiative aims to tackle these challenges by restoring degraded areas and emphasizing the critical need for mangrove protection.
The Mangrove Planting Activities
Our journey began early in the morning as we departed from Jakarta to Karawang, West Java. Upon arrival, we commenced the event with a formal opening ceremony and the symbolic handover of mangrove seedlings. From there, we travelled by boat to the designated planting site. The actual planting of the mangroves was a rewarding experience, as we not only contributed to the environment but also learned about the local mangrove habitat, including observing species such as the salamander fish.
This initiative represents more than just an endeavour—it serves as a collective call to environmental preservation. Through this program, we are actively restoring vital ecosystems while raising awareness on the significance of mangroves ecosystem and promoting sustainable environmental practices. With that in mind, we are happy that our contribution to the cause adds to the overall community goals of planting 4000 mangrove trees in the area.
Impact and Future Steps
We believe that by taking proactive measures, no matter how small, we can contribute to a more sustainable future. Our new division will focus on promoting and implementing sustainable practices, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting renewable energy initiatives. By integrating sustainability into every aspect of our operations, from client services to internal practices, we hope to set a new standard in Indonesia’s legal industry. These small steps are part of our larger commitment to making a positive impact on the environment.
We are also proud to announce that UMBRA has once again been recognized in the esteemed ALB Top 15 ESG Law Firm list for our leadership in environmental, social, and governance practices. Our ongoing inclusion in this prestigious list validates our mission to lead by example in sustainability, demonstrating how law firms can actively contribute to environmental conservation.
From the 2024 Mangrove Planting Initiative, and the establishment of Sustainability, Carbon, and Climate Change Initiative Division, to winning the Top 15 ESG Law Firm title, we continuously reaffirm our pioneering role in integrating sustainability into legal practice. These milestones highlight our dedication to legal excellence and environmental stewardship through sustainable business practices.
Thank you to Ikatan Alumni Teknik Lingkungan Institut Teknologi Bandung and PT Pertamina EP for their support in making this event a success.
Join us in our journey towards a greener, more sustainable world.
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UMBRA’s Sustainability, Carbon, and Climate Change Initiative Division aims to lead the way in environmental stewardship and innovation. Together, we can create a lasting impact on our planet.
For a closer look at our 2024 Mangrove Planting Initiative and to see our efforts in action, please watch our video on YouTube here
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