PT PLN (Persero) Unit Induk Pembangunan (UIP) Sulawesi has planted 7,000 Avicennia mangrove seedlings across 2.7 hectares in Tonrokassi Timur Village, Tamalatea District, Jeneponto Regency, South Sulawesi. This initiative aims to mitigate coastal erosion and enhance biodiversity in the region. The planting site is strategically located along the high-voltage transmission line corridor for the 150 kV Punagaya - Bantaeng project, providing natural defenses for critical infrastructure.
The environmental effort has received support from local authorities, including the Jeneponto Regency Environmental Agency. Mangroves are known to reduce wave heights by 13% to 66%, playing a vital role in coastal protection. Indonesia, possessing the world's largest mangrove forests, is undertaking a significant restoration effort, with a target to restore 600,000 hectares by 2024. The Avicennia genus, used in this project, is valued for its ability to stabilize shorelines and sequester carbon, with its parts also utilized in traditional medicine. PLN's commitment to environmental responsibility is further demonstrated by its ISO 14001 certified Environmental Management System and its efforts in waste management, water conservation, and emissions control. In 2023, PLN successfully reduced its ESG risk rating by 8 points, achieving the lowest rating among electricity utilities in the ASEAN region.