IoT technology to protect Karimunjawa coral reefs
SEBUG innovation for marine conservation in Karimunjawa
In the midst of efforts to preserve the underwater ecosystem, the Disaster Risk Reduction Center (DRRC) of the University of Indonesia (UI) launched an ambitious project with the innovation “SeaBug”, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based drone-based drone. This project aims to monitor water quality and maintain the sustainability of coral reef ecosystems in the Karimunjawa Islands, Jepara, Central Java.
The project, which is supported by an international grant from Cordap (Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform) is an important step in dealing with threats to the marine environment. As an initial stage, the DRRC UI team conducted a field survey in Karimunjawa on February 4 to 8, 2026. This activity is very crucial because it determines the strategic point of placement of drones, analyzes the biophysical conditions of the aquatic, and maps the dynamics of the local community environment.
DRRC UI Project Manager, Dr. Adonis Muzanni explained that the survey results will be processed in depth in the laboratory to determine the final location. He emphasized that the placement of this infrastructure will not interfere with natural aesthetics or local navigation routes, but instead become a “digital guard” for underwater ecosystems.
important role in the protection of coral reefs
Representative of BTN Karimunjawa, Dr. Agus Roma Purnomo, emphasized the urgency of the protection of coral reefs which are increasingly vulnerable to sedimentation and turbidity. The research data for the last five years show significant ecosystem degradation due to uncontrolled tourism activities.
“The biggest challenge at this time is tourism activities, especially snorkeling by less skilled tourists, who accidentally damage coral structures,” said Dr. Agus. However, he emphasized his commitment through the tourism patrol program and environmentally friendly education.
The presence of SEBUG technology from DRRC UI is expected to be able to complement existing conservation efforts. Karimunjawa Village Head, Aris Setiawan, welcomed this initiative and explained that local communities have been making independent recovery efforts through the “open-close” conservation zone.
Aris noted that natural phenomena such as coral bleaching during extreme temperatures often occur, so monitoring water quality data in real-time through IoT will greatly assist the village government in taking regional protection policies.
Integrated monitoring method
This monitoring process combines conventional methods and cutting-edge digital technologies. The team used underwater drones (ROV) to map the visual conditions of coral reefs, measure depth, and take samples of physical water parameters such as pH levels and salinity.
Based on the results of visual observations and technical considerations regarding the safety of IoT devices from strong currents and ease of access to maintenance, the team identified two main recommendation locations for the placement of SEABUG units, namely the water area around Naraya Resort and Floating Paradise.
This direct monitoring method provides an objective description of the challenges of the field to be faced. The data collected shows that the region has high biodiversity but requires technological intervention to maintain water quality stability from pollutants.
Advantages of technology in conservation
SEBUG technology is not only a monitoring tool, but also an innovative solution to maintain the sustainability of underwater ecosystems. With the ability to collect data in real-time, this project can provide accurate and fast information to related parties, including local governments and local communities.
In addition, this technology also has the potential to increase public awareness about the importance of protecting the marine environment. With more transparent data, people can more easily understand the impact of human activities on underwater ecosystems and take appropriate action.
With innovations such as SEABUG, DRRC UI demonstrates its commitment to maintaining environmental sustainability and protecting marine ecosystems that are rich in biodiversity. This project is an important step in facing the increasingly complex environmental challenges in the modern era.
