Integrating nature-based solutions in estuary management: A climate mitigation perspective from Demak, Central Java

119 Integrating nature-based solutions in estuary management: A climate mitigation perspective from Demak, Central Java Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati1,2 , Lilih Khotimperwati1,2 , Jumari Jumari1,2 , Muhammad Helmy2,3 1 Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH Street, Tembalang, Semarang 50275, Indonesia 2 Cluster for Paleolimnology (CPalim), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia 3 Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia Corresponding author: Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati ([email protected]) Copyright: © Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al. This is an open access article distributed under terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (Attribution 4.0 International – CC BY 4.0). Research Article Abstract Estuaries are vital ecosystems that play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change. They act as natural buffers against rising sea levels and coastal erosion while serving as significant carbon sinks due to their diverse and productive ecosystems. Integrating Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into estuary management offers a promising approach to mitigate the impacts of climate change while enhancing ecosystem services and community resilience. This study focuses on the potential of NbS in managing estuaries in Demak, Central Java, a region highly vulnerable to coastal hazards such as erosion, flooding, and land subsidence. Key strategies explored include mangrove restoration, sustainable aquaculture, and community-driven conservation efforts. The findings demonstrate that these approaches can reduce the risks associated with climate change, improve biodiversity, and support local livelihoods by providing sustainable economic opportunities. Mangrove restoration in Bedono Village, Demak, illustrates how Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and hybrid engineering can address coastal subsidence, tidal flooding, and ecological degradation. Field observations (2022–2025) show that mangrove rehabilitation supported by permeable brushwood barriers has increased sediment accretion by 5–15 cm/year and enabled natural recruitment of Avicennia and Rhizophora, contributing to shoreline stabilization. Community-led restoration achieved estimated mangrove survival rates of 60–70%, while participatory activities involving youth and women strengthened local livelihoods and environmental stewardship. Comparative analysis with other Indonesian and regional projects highlights the effectiveness of integrating community engagement with low-cost engineering. The Bedono model demonstrates the potential of NbS to enhance coastal resilience, support carbon sequestration, and align with national climate strategies, offering a replicable framework for vulnerable estuarine regions. Key words: Nature-based Solutions, estuarine management, climate resilience, Demak, mangrove restoration, sustainable aquaculture, Bedono Introduction Estuaries, the transitional zones where freshwater rivers meet marine systems, are among the most productive and ecologically significant environments on Earth (Stamp et al. 2022). They support over 1,500 marine species during critAcademic editor: Priya K L Received: 23 September 2025 Accepted: 21 November 2025 Published: 8 December 2025 Citation: Soeprobowati TR, Khotimperwati L, Jumari J, Helmy M (2025) Integrating nature-based solutions in estuary management: A climate mitigation perspective from Demak, Central Java. Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140. https://doi.org/10.3897/ emt.2.172938 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025) DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 120 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management ical life stages and provide vital ecological services such as nutrient cycling (Hoshovsky et al. 2025), carbon storage (Yang et al. 2025) and shoreline stabilization (Spiering et al. 2021). Estuaries buffers against climate change impacts such as coastal erosion, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events (Hülsen et al. 2025). Intertidal ecosystems such as salt marshes can dissipate wave energy and reduce erosion and flooding (Van Coppenolle and Temmerman 2019), while mangroves provide natural coastal protection through wave attenuation and sediment controll (Osland et al. 2022; Verutes et al. 2024). In addition to ecological function, estuaries provide socio-economic benefits. They act as vital nursery grounds for many marine species (Priya et al. 2022; Inness-Gold et al. 2025), tourism (Jones et al. 2023), contribute to water filtration (Ward et al. 2023), and maintain biodiversity (Dowdall et al. 2022). Despite their importance, estuarine ecosystems face growing threats from land subsidence (Pedretti et al. 2024), deforestation, and unsustainable aquaculture (Van Wesenbeeck et al. 2015; Nagaraju et al. 2025), pollution, and infrastructure development. Mangrove are particularly critical components of Indonesia estuaries due to their capacity for carbon sequestration and coastal protection. Indonesia contains approximately 22.6% of the world’s mangrove area (Giri et al. 2011; FAO 2023) and harbours more than 50 mangrove species, predominantly of the genus Rhizophora (Arifanti et al. 2022; Martin et al. 2024; Suhardi et al. 2024). Yet, Indonesia remains among the countries with the highest mangrove deforestation rates, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) offer a sustainable approach to restoring and managing estuarine ecosystems by leveraging natural processes to enhance resilience (Rahaman et al. 2020), and provide multiple benefits for biodiversity, climate resilience, and human well-being (Baustian et al. 2020; van der Meulen 2022; Filz et al. 2025). The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) defines NbS as actions that protect, manage, and restore natural ecosystems to address societal challenges while supporting biodiversity and human well-being (Huera and Davis 2023; Berg et al. 2024; Chairat et al. 2024). This study examines the integration of NbS in estuarine management in Demak, Central Java, a region experiencing severe coastal abrasion. The research evaluate the effectiveness of mangrove restoration, sustainable aquaculture, and community-driven conservation initiatives in mitigating climate change impacts while supporting biodiversity and local livelihoods. The study focuses on the application of NbS in Bedono Village, Demak, Central Java, where mangrove degradation and coastal erosion have severely impacted both the environment and livelihoods. Mangroves are a prime example of NbS, providing numerous ecological benefits such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and habitat for biodiversity (Lovelock et al. 2024; Yang et al. 2025). Effective conservation policies can protect these ecosystems from threats like habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change impacts (Jayakumar et al. 2024; Waleed et al. 2025). Bedono, a coastal village in Demak, is among the most vulnerable areas, having lost significant land to tidal inundation and environmental degradation. The phenomenon known as “Rob,” which is caused by tidal fluctuations, has severely impacted the village. The inundation patterns, particularly from April 121 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management to June, reach heights of 50–110 cm and cover an area of 12.7 km², disrupting community activities, livelihoods, transportation, and social structures. This has led to a cultural adaptation where the community has developed unwritten rules and behaviors to cope with the recurring tidal floods (Setyawati et al. 2017). The community relies heavily on fisheries and aquaculture, which are increasingly affected by coastal hazards (Hague et al. 2021; Rani 2025). Previous interventions, such as mangrove rehabilitation and sediment traps, have shown potential in reducing coastal hazards (Utami et al. 2024). However, in the long term, sustainable solutions are still required to ensure the resilience of local communities and ecosystems (Foti et al. 2020; Gupta et al. 2025). Methods Study area The study was conducted in Bedono Village, Sayung Sub-district, Demak, Central Java (6°55′–6°57'S, 110°30′–110°33'E), an area severely affected by coastal erosion and land subsidence. Bedono functions as a living laboratory for NbS, including mangrove rehabilitation and silvofishery systems. Research approach A mixed-methods approach was employed to comprehensively assess the implementation and ecological outcomes of NbS in Bedono Village, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques (Amiron et al. 2024; Ramírez et al. 2025). This approach was chosen to capture the complexity of the ecological, spatial, and social dimensions associated with coastal restoration and climate adaptation. Bedono Village was selected as a focal site due to its high vulnerability to tidal flooding, land subsidence, and coastal erosion (Marfai 2012; Rudiarto et al. 2018). The methodological framework combined document review, field observations, ecological monitoring, stakeholder consultations, and participatory assessments. Secondary data were obtained from government reports, including the Ministry of Environment and Forestry’s FOLU Net Sink 2030 roadmap (MoEF 2023), and peer-reviewed studies on mangroves and coastal adaptation (Murdiyarso et al. 2015; Muskananfola et al. 2020; Sasmito et al. 2020). Existing ecological monitoring datasets were incorporated from NGOs and academic partners (Soeprobowati and Hariyati 2017; Prasetyo et al. 2024). Field observations and environmental monitoring Field data were collected during two contrasting seasonal periods, representing the wet season (March 2025) and the dry season (October 2025), to capture seasonal variability in hydro-ecological conditions. Sampling was conducted across three main sites within Bedono Village—Bedono, Pandansari, and Morosari—selected to represent gradients of mangrove restoration activity and tidal exposure. Field observations were conducted at multiple locations within Bedono Village (Fig. 1). to document restoration interventions and ecological conditions. 122 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management Figure 1. Georeferenced Satellite Imagery of Bedono, Demak, with Administrative Boundaries and Inset Location Map. Quantitative environmental parameters were measured systematically, including soil, water pH, salinity, and sediment texture, using portable digital meters and standardized sampling protocols. Salinity and pH were measured in situ using a YSI multiparameter probe at five monitoring stations during the dry and wet seasons of the same year. Each value represents the mean ± standard deviation (n = 5). Vegetation and sediment accretion At each site, three 50-m transects were established perpendicular to the shoreline, with three 1×1 m quadrats placed at 0,25, and 50 m along each transect (27 quadrats per season). Mangroves were identified to species level, and stem density, seedling regeneration, and canopy condition were recorded. Dominant species included Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, and Sonneratia alba. Seedling survival was assessed from tagged individuals between surveys. Sediment accretion was measured using 1.5-m PVC stakes and marker horizon techniques (Cahoon et al. 2002). Socio-economic data collection Primary socio-economic data were obtained from the Bedono Village Office (2024), which maintains annual records on population displacement, housing loss, and mangrove planting programs. For example, the reported rate of housing loss (≈approximately 30 houses per year) was derived directly from these village records, verified through field observations and participatory mapping with local leaders (Kepala Dusun). Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 respondents representing key community groups, including fishpond owners, women’s cooperatives, youth associations, and village offi- 123 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management cials. Interviews explored perceptions of mangrove restoration, economic diversification (e.g., products derived from mangroves), and local governance in the implementation of NbS. Community participation and perception assessment Structured interviews and participatory workshops captured local knowledge, perceptions, and participation in NbS initiatives. Standardized questionnaires explored awareness of climate impacts, attitudes toward mangrove restoration, and perceived benefits of ecosystem-based adaptation. Field observations were supplemented by focus group discussions with fisherfolk, women’s groups, and village leaders (Morales et al. 2024; Utami et al. 2024). Participatory workshops employed an approach that ensured local knowledge and lived experiences were incorporated alongside scientific assessments, reflecting the co-production of knowledge in sustainability research (Turnhout et al. 2020; Voytenko et al. 2016). In-depth interviews with key stakeholders Semi-structured interviews were conducted with village heads, representatives from the Department of Marine and Fisheries, environmental NGOs, and academic partners. Interviews focused on institutional roles, decision-making processes, funding mechanisms, and socio-political challenges. All interviews were recorded with consent, transcribed, and thematically coded. The participatory approach ensured that local knowledge and lived experiences were incorporated alongside scientific assessments, reflecting co-production of knowledge in sustainability research (Tribaldos et al. 2020). Ethical approval was granted by the Health Research Ethics Committee, Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University (No. 181/EA.KEPK-FKM/2025). Data analysis Seasonal differences in environmental parameters were analyzed using oneway ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc tests (p < 0.05). Pearson correlations assessed relationships between mangrove density and sediment accretion. Analyses were conducted in R 4.3.2. Qualitative and quantitative datasets were triangulated using Creswell’s mixed-methods convergence framework to strengthen validity, identify consistencies or divergences, and integrate ecological and socio-cultural insights. Results and discussion Physico-chemical conditions Significant seasonal differences were detected in salinity and pH (both p < 0.01), with lower values during the wet season due to increased freshwater inputs (Table 1). Salinity decreased from 29.34 ± 1.02 ppt (dry) to 23.18 ± 1.44 ppt (wet), while pH declined from 4.1 ± 0.26 to 3.2 ± 0.31. These patterns reflect monsoonal hydrology and are consistent with previous findings from 124 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management northern Java mangrove–estuarine systems (Muskananfola et al. 2020; Soeprobowati et al. 2023). Reduced salinity during the wet season likely improved seedling establishment of Rhizophora mucronata and Avicennia marina, whereas the lower pH indicates enhanced organic decomposition and sulfide oxidation (Alongi 2015; Kristensen et al. 2008). Sediment texture also shifted significantly (F = 21.47, p = 0.006), changing from sand-dominated (64%) in the dry season to a higher proportion of silt–clay material (43%) in the wet season (Table 2). This transition suggests increased sediment trapping by restored mangrove stands following NbS implementation. Sediment texture analysis revealed that Bedono’s substrate transitions from silty (72.4%) in the wet season to sandy-silt (48.7% silt, 41.2% sand) in the dry season, reflecting the interplay of hydrodynamic energy and sediment resuspension. These results are broadly consistent with the findings of Muskananfola et al. (2020), who reported in March, the sediment is predominantly silt (85.78%), while in October, it is more sandy (40.13%). This variation influences the distribution and abundance of mangrove species, as different species have varying tolerances to salinity levels (Meera et al. 2023). The organic material content in the sediment remains relatively stable between seasons (14.95% in March and 14.65% in October) (Muskananfola et al. 2020). Organic matter is crucial for providing nutrients to mangrove species, influencing their growth and distribution (Meera et al. 2023). Different mangrove species exhibit varying levels of tolerance to environmental stressors. For instance, species like Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mangle have shown different growth responses to salinity and light levels, with some species being more sensitive to high salinity and light conditions (Liao et al. 2025). Seasonal sediment dynamics showed coarser, sand-dominated substrates in the dry season due to higher tidal energy and reduced freshwater discharge, while the wet season increased silt–clay deposition, enhancing nutrient retention, carbon burial, and seedling establishment. The shift from 64.3% sand to 56.7% sand alongside higher silt–clay fractions after NbS implementation indicates improved sediment trapping and reduced erosion, consistent with increased mangrove density and canopy complexity that slow water flow and promote fine-particle deposition (Alongi 2014; Bhomia et al. 2016). Sediment accretion correlated strongly with mangrove density (r = 0.91, p = 0.012), with Table 1. Seasonal variation of water parameters in Bedono Village (Same Year, Different Seasons). Parameter Dry Season (Mean ± SD) Wet Season (Mean ± SD) ANOVA F-value p-value Salinity (ppt) 29.34 ± 1.02 23.18 ± 1.44 38.62 0.002 pH 4.1 ± 0.26 3.2 ± 0.31 24.77 0.004 Table 2. Sediment texture composition before and after NbS implementation. Season Sand (%) Silt (%) Clay (%) ANOVA F-value p-value Dry (Pre-NbS) 64.3 ± 3.5 25.8 ± 2.1 9.9 ± 1.2 21.47 0.006 Wet (Post-NbS) 56.7 ± 4.1 31.2 ± 2.8 12.1 ± 1.5 — — 125 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management dense Rhizophora mucronata stands facilitating tidal attenuation and accumulation of finer, organic-rich material, thereby strengthening coastal stability and vertical accretion. Mangrove density Mangrove density showed a strong positive correlation with sediment accretion (r = 0.91, p = 0.012; Table 3), indicating that denser stands enhanced sediment retention and stabilization. Higher stem densities corresponded to greater accretion rates, providing quantitative evidence that NbS-based restoration improves sediment stability and coastal resilience in Bedono. Combined shifts in salinity, pH, and sediment texture demonstrate that NbS interventions significantly influence hydrological and geomorphological conditions. Restored mangrove cover acts as a bio-physical buffer that reduces salinity intrusion, increases fine sediment trapping, and moderates pH fluctuations—key benefits for systems facing sea-level rise and land subsidence. Continuous physicochemical monitoring and seasonally informed restoration planning would further strengthen adaptive NbS management. Overall, the interaction of seasonal salinity dynamics, acidic but biogeochemically active soils, and progressive sediment fining reflects improving habitat conditions that support sustainable mangrove rehabilitation under NbS implementation. Mangrove condition Mangrove assessments identified Avicennia marina, A. alba, and Rhizophora mucronata as the dominant species in Bedono (Table 4). Following NbS interventions—primarily community-based restoration and hydrological reconnection—mangrove structure improved markedly. Total density increased from 75 to 149 individuals per 100 m², with A. marina remaining dominant due to its tolerance to salinity and periodic inundation. R. mucronata showed substantial recovery, rising from 28 to 59 individuals per 100 m² with a 68% seedling survival rate, particularly in sheltered areas. Sonneratia alba exhibited a lower survival rate (54%) consistent with its sensitivity to wave exposure. Species diversity increased significantly, indicated by the rise of the Shannon Index from 0.83 to 1.47, reflecting improved habitat heterogeneity and ecosystem resilience. These changes demonstrate the effectiveness of NbS in enhancing structural complexity and promoting natural regeneration in subsiding coastal environments. Table 3. Mangrove stand density and sediment accretion rate in monitoring plots. Plot Mangrove Density (stems m-²) Sediment Accretion (cm yr-¹) P1 3.8 1.4 P2 4.1 1.6 P3 4.3 1.7 P4 4.8 2.0 P5 5.2 2.3 126 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management The post-restoration increase in density and diversity supports the ecological benefits of hydrological reconnection and mixed-species planting. Survival patterns aligned with known ecological traits: high tolerance of A. marina, substrate stability requirements of R. mucronata, and wave sensitivity of S. alba. Enhanced diversity improves ecosystem functioning, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration potential, aligning with findings from other Java north-coast restoration sites where ecological engineering and community engagement reduced coastal vulnerability. Overall, Bedono’s NbS outcomes highlight the value of coupling ecological suitability with local stewardship, illustrating how adaptive management can restore mangrove ecosystem functionality and increase resilience in dynamic deltaic settings. Socio-economic impacts Primary records from the Bedono Village Office indicate that approximately 30 houses are loss each year as a result of progressive land subsidence and tidal intrusion, a trend that continuous to escalate. These data, derived from official inundation and relocation records between 2018 and 2025, represent the administrative count of households affected by coastal flooding. Field observations documented a progressive loss of coastal housing in Bedono Village over the past four years (Fig. 2). In 2022, the last remaining house closest to the shoreline was still intact and still inhabitated by Mrs. Paijah, a long-term resident who had lived through successive inundation events access to the house was possible only via a narrow bamboo bridge, as seawater had already inundated the ground beneath. By 2023, the house had been completely lost to coastal inundation, marking the disappearance of the final habitable structure in that section of the village. Measurements and visual assessments conducted in 2024 indicated a further rise in seawater levels at the site, a trend that persisted into 2025. This pattern reflects the combined effects of land subsidence, tidal flooding, and coastal erosion have resulted in both physical and socio-economic displacement, with affected households forced to relocate inland or migrate to neighboring areas. Table 4. Changes in mangrove community structure before and after NbS implementation in Bedono Village. Species Pre-NbS Density (ind./100 m²) Post-NbS Density (ind./100 m²) Seedling Survival Rate (%) Remarks Avicennia marina 35 68 72 High tolerance to salinity; dominant colonizer Rhizophora mucronata 28 59 68 Successful establishment in sheltered areas Sonneratia alba 12 22 54 Lower survival in waveexposed zones Total individuals 75 149 — — Species richness (S) 3 3 — — Shannon Diversity (H’) 0.83 1.47 —Increased diversity and structural complexity 127 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management Figure 2. Bedono village from 2022–2025. This condition underscoring the urgency of implementing and scaling NbS to reduce future risk. Analysis of spatial imagery showed significant shoreline advancement in areas where mangrove restoration had been actively pursued (Soeprobowati et al. 2025). Over 90% of respondents perceived worsening tidal inundation and land loss over the past decade, while also acknowledging that mangrove planting has helped reduce flooding impacts. Participation in restoration was high, with 76% involved in mangrove planting since 2020 and 67% of women engaged in NbS-based enterprise training. Perceived economic benefits were moderate but positive, reflected in a mean Likert score of 3.9 ± 0.9 for the statement “NbS activities have improved household income.” Triangulation of survey responses, interviews, and environmental data revealed strong agreement between community perceptions and measured ecosystem conditions. Among 45 participants, 85% reported reduced erosion and improved fish catch following restoration—patterns supported by field data showing salinity of 20.47–31.62 ppt, acidic pH of 2.5–4.4, and fine, organic-rich sediments suitable for mangrove growth (Table 1; Figs 2, 3). Community observations of increased biodiversity and improved water quality also aligned with measured ecological responses. Minor discrepancies, particularly regarding short-term water quality fluctuations, highlight the need for continued monitoring to sustain NbS outcomes. 134 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management enterprises, and alignment with provincial coastal zoning plans. By combining ecological rehabilitation with socio-economic empowerment, the Bedono experience provides a practical template for scaling NbS and hybrid measures across Indonesia’s northern coast and similar deltaic environments. Limitations This study acknowledges several limitations that should be considered when interpreting its findings. First, community perceptions and responses were derived from self-reported interviews, which may be subject to recall bias or social desirability effects. Although triangulated with observational and biophysical data, these subjective elements may influence the nuance of socio-cultural insights. Second, the environmental datasets—especially those related to mangrove growth, sediment accretion, and tidal inundation—were collected primarily between 2022 and 2025. While these data provide an important snapshot of current ecological conditions, longer-term monitoring is required to capture interannual variability and the cumulative effects of subsidence and sea-level rise. Despite these constraints, the integration of quantitative measurements, qualitative interviews, and participatory observations strengthens the internal validity and reliability of the overall findings. Conclusion Тhe Bedono case demonstrates that integrating Nature-based Solutions with hybrid engineering offers an effective and context-sensitive pathway for strengthening resilience in subsiding and tidally flooded estuarine landscapes. The use of permeable brushwood barriers constructed from bamboo and mangrove branches has proven particularly effective in Demak, where these structures Table 7. Socio-economy benefit. Category Benefit Livelyhoods Income from seedling nurseries and mangrove products Coastal protection Reduce wave damage and shoreline stabilization Food security Increased mussel populations Social well-being Stronger community cohesion and participation Figure 5. NbS implementation in Bedono, Demak, Central Java. 135 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management attenuate wave energy, stimulate sediment accretion of approximately 5–15 cm per year, and create favourable conditions for the natural recruitment of Avicennia and Rhizophora. When combined with community-led mangrove rehabilitation, these hybrid measures have contributed to shoreline stabilization and improved ecosystem functionality. At the same time, active participation from youth, women, and local community groups has supported livelihood diversification and reinforced environmental stewardship, linking ecological gains to social benefits. These outcomes highlight the ability of NbS and bamboo-based hybrid engineering to deliver multi-dimensional co-benefits that advance local climate adaptation priorities, human well-being, and sustainable coastal management. The Bedono model provides a replicable framework for other vulnerable coastlines across Indonesia and the Global South, underscoring the need for long-term monitoring, institutional support, and policy incentives—such as silvofishery integration—to sustain restoration benefits and scale successful approaches. Acknowledgement The authors gratefully acknowledge the funding, which was essential for the successful implementation of this study. The authors also wish to express their sincere gratitude to their collaborators at Diponegoro University (UNDIP) for their guidance, constructive feedback, and valuable contributions throughout the research process. Finally, the authors acknowledge the support and participation of all colleagues, community members, and staff whose involvement significantly contributed to the completion of this activity. Additional information Conflict of interest The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. Ethical statement Ethical approval was granted by the Health Research Ethics Committee, Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University (No. 181/EA.KEPK-FKM/2025). Use of AI AI was used to help with grammar and strengthen the English. Funding This research activity was financially supported by the Directorate of Research and Community Services, Directorate General of Research and Development, Ministry of Higher Education, Sciences, and Technology, under the research grant Program of Community Services, scheme Community Partnership Empowerment (Pemberdayaan Kemitraan Masyarakat, PKM), Contract Number 360-08/UN7.D2.1/PM/VI/2025. Author contributions Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati, conceptual, financial, methods. Lilih Khotimperwati, conceptual, data analysis, administration. Jumari Jumari, fielwork, data analysis, manuscript. Muhammad Helmi: data analysis, manuscript. 136 Estuarine Management and Technologies 2: 119–140 (2025), DOI: 10.3897/emt.2.172938 Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati et al.: NbS estuary management Author ORCIDs Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7525-7028 Lilih Khotimperwati https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1889-1748 Jumari Jumari https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3150-5293 AuthorName https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5270-8612 Data availability All of the data that support the findings of this study are available in the main text. References Alongi DM (2014) Carbon cycling and storage in mangrove forests. Annual Review of Marine Science 6: 195–219. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-marine-010213-135020 PMID: 24405426. Amiron E, Abdul Latib A (2024) Aligning TVET curriculum with fourth industrial revolution skills for the food services industry: A mixed methods approach. 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