Biodiversity is one of the most frequently mentioned terms when discussing the environment and conservation. However, many people still wonder: what exactly does biodiversity mean?
In simple terms, biodiversity encompasses all forms of life on Earth, from microorganisms, plants, and animals to the ecosystems in which they exist. This diversity forms the foundation of ecological balance and human survival.
Unfortunately, pressures from development, deforestation, climate change, and overexploitation have pushed many plant and animal species to the brink of extinction.
To address these challenges, various efforts have been undertaken, one of which is the establishment of a Biodiversity Garden. These gardens serve as spaces for conservation, education, and the preservation of rare and endemic species, particularly in Indonesia.
What Is Biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms, including microorganisms, plants, animals, and the ecosystems in which they live. It is not limited to the number of species but also includes genetic variation and ecosystem diversity.
In other words, the higher the biodiversity of a region, the more complex and resilient its ecological systems become.
Indonesia is recognized as a megabiodiversity country, making it one of the richest nations in terms of biological wealth. However, this richness continues to face threats from land-use conversion, overexploitation, and climate change.
Planned and sustainable conservation strategies are therefore essential, one of which is through the development of Biodiversity Gardens
Planting Patterns in Biodiversity Gardens
Biodiversity Gardens are not designed through random planting; instead, they follow structured ecological, conservation, and sustainability principles.
- Ecological and Conservation Functions
- Priority species: local, endemic, rare, or endangered plants such as Jambu Lir (Syzygium discophorum), Pala Jawa/Durenan (Myristica teysmanii), and the Dioscorea platycarpa group.
- Supporting vegetation: flowering plants to attract pollinators, fruit-bearing plants to feed wildlife, and erosion-preventing vegetation.
- Site adaptation: plant selection is adjusted to climate, soil, and altitude.
- Phased planting: carried out during rainy seasons to ensure higher survival rates.
- Layered Vegetation Composition
Mimicking natural tropical forest ecosystems, gardens combine trees, shrubs, flowering plants, and ground covers. This creates complex habitats that support diverse wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and pollinating bees.
- Natural and Sustainable Principles
- Prioritizing native plants.
- Avoiding chemical pesticides.
- Providing natural habitats, including water sources and shrubs as wildlife shelters.
- Allowing some areas to remain “wild” to sustain ecological functions.
Priority Plants in Biodiversity Gardens
Plant selection follows conservation priorities, which include:
- Rare and endemic plants: such as Syzygium discophorum, Myristica teysmanii, and Dioscorea platycarpa.
- Ecologically and socio-economically valuable plants: Edelweiss, sandalwood, sago, and Kasturi mango.
- National priority tree species: including endangered Shorea uliginosa (Meranti Paya).
- Botanical conservation plants: rare species such as rhododendrons and ornamental plants.
Beyond their conservation value, these plants sustain ecosystems, provide food resources, and support wildlife habitats.
Biodiversity Gardens as Centers for Education and Conservation
More than just gardens, Biodiversity Gardens function as living laboratories. Visitors can learn about biodiversity, ecosystem balance, and rare plant species while observing their roles in nature. These gardens also contribute to:
- Climate change mitigation through carbon absorption and water conservation.
- Food security by preserving native food crops.
- Cultural sustainability, as many plants hold traditional and spiritual significance.
The Biodiversity Garden of PT Paiton Energy and POMI
A tangible example of this concept in Indonesia is the Biodiversity Garden of PT Paiton Energy and POMI. Established in collaboration with BRIN in 2014, this 8,500 m² garden is located within the employee housing complex of PT Paiton Energy.
Objectives and Programs:
- Ex-situ conservation: preserving rare trees from across Indonesia.
- Public education: raising awareness about biodiversity.
- Environment-based CSR: promoting sustainable development and climate change mitigation.
Beyond the housing complex, PT Paiton Energy and POMI also support conservation initiatives such as:
- Community Forest in Selobanteng Village: promoting both environmental preservation and local welfare.
- Mangrove Conservation in Kampung Blekok: integrated with ecotourism and creative economies.
Collections and Recognition:
The garden hosts over 6,000 plant specimens, including rare, fruit-bearing, medicinal, ornamental, and mixed forest trees. It also serves as an educational facility for schools in Probolinggo Regency.
For their commitment, PT Paiton Energy and POMI have received multiple awards:
- Indonesia Green Award in the Biodiversity Development category (2016, 2021, and 2022).
- Environmental and Social Innovation Award (ENSIA Award) in 2024 and 2025.
A Call for Collective Awareness
Biodiversity is the foundation of life. Without it, humanity would lose essential resources such as food, medicine, energy, and ecological balance.
Biodiversity is not merely a scientific term; it is a reality that influences every aspect of our lives. Through Biodiversity Gardens, both locally and nationally, we can preserve rare species, protect ecological functions, and educate future generations.
The example of PT Paiton Energy and POMI demonstrates that conservation efforts can go hand in hand with sustainable development.It is now time to recognize biodiversity preservation as not only the responsibility of governments or corporations but also of individuals. Ultimately, biodiversity is life itself, and its survival reflects the future we will build together.
