In the heart of Bali, where lush rice fields meet the encroaching sprawl of urbanization, a critical battle for sustainable agriculture is unfolding. A recent study published in the *Journal of Degraded and Mining Lands Management* sheds light on the alarming degradation of subak rice fields in South Denpasar, offering a roadmap for restoration that could reshape agricultural practices in urbanizing regions.
The research, led by Lina Anandari Dwi Ambarini from the School of Environmental Science at the University of Indonesia, reveals that approximately 87 hectares of subak land have been lost in just five years. This decline is driven by a mix of weak spatial enforcement, pollution from domestic and industrial waste, and a lack of farmer engagement in regeneration efforts. The study underscores the urgent need for a multidimensional approach to sustain the subak system, which is not only an ecological lifeline but also a cultural treasure.
“Sustaining the subak system requires more than just ecological restoration; it demands socio-economic empowerment and cultural revitalization,” Ambarini explains. The study identifies five key strategies to achieve this: enforcing land use regulations, providing economic incentives for conservation farming, integrating the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, building farmer capacity through digital technology, and improving irrigation maintenance.
The commercial implications of this research are profound. For the agriculture sector, the degradation of subak fields translates to reduced productivity and economic losses. By adopting the proposed strategies, farmers could see improved yields and more stable livelihoods. “Economic incentives for conservation farming can create a win-win situation,” Ambarini notes. “Farmers benefit from higher productivity, and the environment gains from sustainable practices.”
The integration of digital technology in capacity building is particularly noteworthy. As urbanization continues to pressure agricultural lands, leveraging technology can empower farmers to adapt and thrive. This approach could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, demonstrating how traditional farming systems can be revitalized through innovation.
The study’s findings also highlight the importance of cultural values in sustainable land management. The Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which emphasizes harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual world, offers a unique framework for balancing ecological and socio-economic goals. By embedding these values into modern agricultural practices, the subak system can be preserved as both a cultural heritage and a productive agricultural landscape.
As urban pressures continue to mount, the lessons from South Denpasar could inspire similar efforts worldwide. The research suggests that sustainable land management is not just about restoring ecosystems but also about empowering communities and preserving cultural identities. For the agriculture sector, this means embracing a holistic approach that integrates ecological, economic, and cultural dimensions.
In the end, the study by Ambarini and her team offers a beacon of hope for the future of subak rice fields in Bali. By adopting the proposed strategies, local authorities and farmers can work together to restore the ecological and cultural integrity of the subak system, ensuring its survival amid the challenges of urbanization. The research not only provides a blueprint for South Denpasar but also sets a precedent for sustainable land management in urbanizing regions globally.