Universitas Bung Hatta supports Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water through comprehensive research, innovation, and community engagement to conserve marine ecosystems. The university’s studies on microplastic pollution, water quality, and water biodiversity contribute to environmental restoration and sustainable aquaculture. Universitas Bung Hatta promotes marine education, policy collaboration, and local empowerment through initiatives like Blue Halo S, ensuring the protection and sustainable use of ocean resources. Its integrated scientific and social approaches highlight Universitas Bung Hatta’s strong commitment to preserving life below water and advancing Indonesia’s blue economy. Universitas Bung Hatta ensure that food on campus that comes from aquatic ecosystems is sustainably harvested. Universitas Bung Hatta commitment on preventing and reducing marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities
1. Research on Water Pollution and Microplastic Contamination
Universitas Bung Hatta actively conducts studies on the distribution, accumulation, and impacts of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems across West Sumatra. Research in areas such as Lake Singkarak, Lake Maninjau, and Padang’s coastal waters provides baseline data on pollution levels and polymer composition. These findings highlight the urgent need for waste management reforms and environmental awareness to protect marine biodiversity. Universitas Bung Hatta’s research also investigates mitigation strategies, including the use of filtration and bioaccumulation approaches to reduce microplastic impacts on aquatic life.
2. Sustainable Aquaculture and Coastal Ecosystem Management
Universitas Bung Hatta researchers develop sustainable aquaculture practices that minimize ecological footprints and enhance coastal resilience. Studies on water quality, feed formulation, and species growth performance, such as shrimp and lobster culture, contribute to the advancement of eco-friendly water systems. By integrating mangrove restoration and nutrient recycling into aquaculture design, Universitas Bung Hatta promotes ecosystem-based management approaches that support both productivity and conservation. These innovations reflect the university’s strong commitment to sustainable blue economy development.
3. Water Biodiversity and Habitat Conservation
Universitas Bung Hatta plays a key role in documenting and conserving water biodiversity in Indonesia’s western region. Research includes population assessments of cetaceans, coral reef monitoring, and species diversity surveys in estuarine and marine protected areas. These efforts strengthen scientific understanding of ecosystem dynamics and guide effective management policies. Collaborative projects with marine parks and conservation NGOs demonstrate Universitas Bung Hatta’s leadership in preserving biodiversity through research, education, and public engagement.
4. Assessment of Water Quality and Environmental Sustainability
The university’s environmental scientists conduct comprehensive water quality assessments in coastal and estuarine systems to monitor nutrient loads, pollution, and habitat conditions. Research results are used to evaluate environmental sustainability for activities such as diving tourism and aquqculture development. Universitas Bung Hatta integrates scientific data into local decision-making processes to ensure that economic activities are aligned with waret ecosystem health. These studies reinforce the importance of maintaining balance between development and environmental stewardship.
5. Water Policy, Education, and Community-Based Conservation
Universitas Bung Hatta actively engages in marine policy development, environmental education, and community empowerment programs related to ocean conservation. Through its Blue Halo S initiative and collaboration with government and NGOs, the university supports marine protected area management, sustainable fisheries, and coastal rehabilitation. Educational campaigns and student-led projects raise public awareness about marine pollution, biodiversity protection, and climate adaptation in coastal zones. These integrated activities illustrate Universitas Bung Hatta’s holistic approach to protecting marine life and ensuring sustainable ocean use for future generations.
Universitas Bung Hatta activities, documentation and policies to support SDG 14: Life Below Water
Universitas Bung Hatta Policy to Support SDG 14: Life Below Water (Document Link)
publishes progress against SDG14: (Document Link)
Journal related to SDGs 14:
A body have a plan to minimise physical, chemical and/or biological alterations of related aquatic ecosystems: (Document Link)
A research and/or engagement with industries) to maintain and extend existing ecosystems and their biodiversity, of both plants and animals, especially ecosystems under threat. (Document Link)
Implementation of a watershed management strategy based on location specific diversity of aquatic species: (Document Link)
A support programs and incentives that encourage and maintain good aquatic stewardship practices: (Document Link)
Publication related to SDGs 14: (Document Link)
Off-campus Education Outreach Activities: (Document Link)
Book related to water quality standards and guidelines for water discharges: (Document Link)
Activities related to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) can be accessed through the following link: (SDGs Center UBH)