Environmental Awareness

Tuna fishers from the Indonesian Pole and Line and Handline Fisheries Association (AP2HI) in Bitung allocated a portion of their 2025 Community Development Funds to launch an environmental awareness campaign. This campaign focused on reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable fishing practices. Established in 2012, AP2HI represents Indonesia's tuna sector while strengthening fisheries management across coastal communities. Through dedicated industry wide efforts, the association achieved Marine Stewardship Council certification in 2021, highlighting a deep commitment to responsible fishing and marine conservation. As a major global tuna supplier, this fishery supports thousands of local livelihoods. AP2HI members identified environmental education as a critical community need. They focused specifically on reducing single use plastics and safeguarding endangered, threatened, and protected species. Fair Trade certification plays a vital role in encouraging fishers to protect marine life. Fisherman Yuman Sangadji shared his perspective on this impact, stating, "I believe Fair Trade is the best way for us to protect sustainability. It encourages us to become responsible fishers who protect ETP species, species protected by the government. Our hope is that we build businesses that are supported by the association and Fair Trade. We can use the Community Development Funds to help our fishing community." To fulfill these sustainability goals, the association distributed reusable drinking bottles to minimize local waste. They also hosted public lectures at the Fisheries and Marine Polytechnic in Bitung. These events brought fishermen and students together to openly discuss marine conservation. The activities strengthened environmental awareness within the local fishing community. Ultimately, this project demonstrated how focused community initiatives actively support long term ocean health and protect the future of the fishing industry.