Together with the local community, bring the ODD spirit through this activity

Pari Island, a gem in the Thousand Islands Regency, lies 232 kilometers from Jakarta. Renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush mangrove forests, Pari Island boasts incredible coastal and marine potential. However, beneath this natural beauty lies a heartbreaking reality: corporate interests, cloaked under the guise of tourism privatization, threaten the island’s delicate ecosystems.

Beach reclamation on Tengah Island for private tourism development. Credit: Yunsan.E

Unmasking Environmental Injustice

Large-scale corporations have continually encroached on Pari Island, engaging in land reclamation and sea dredging around Tengah Island and Kudus Island, two islands within the Pari Island cluster. These activities have resulted in the destruction of mangroves planted by local communities and the decimation of coral reef zones. The consequences of these actions are dire risking ecological disasters and threatening marine biodiversity.

In response, the local community of Pari Island has risen to demand climate justice, holding corporations accountable and advocating for the cessation of these environmentally destructive practices. Leading this grassroots movement are several local communities Forum Pulau Pari and Perempuan Pulau Pari (Women Group). Their fight for justice is a testament to the islanders’ resilience and deep connection to their environment.

Women Group of Pari Island

Citizen Science for Coral Conservation

In celebration of Open Data Day, we joined the local community in investigating the impacts of reclamation on coral reefs using publicly accessible remote sensing data. Through a hands-on demonstration of open tools rooted in citizen science, we employed Coral Watch method that simplifies coral health monitoring. Our activities extended beyond data collection. We brought environmental education to the island’s youth through storytelling and coloring competitions, instilling a sense of environmental stewardship in the next generation.

Preparing the tools that will be used for the Coral survey

Alarming Findings: Sediment, Bleaching, and Urchins

The Coral Watch observations revealed troubling results. Coral reefs near the reclamation sites were smothered by sediment, a consequence of dredging and land expansion. In some areas, corals showed signs of bleaching, particularly along the reef’s outer edges. However, not all findings were grim other stations exhibited healthy coral populations, offering a glimmer of hope.

One peculiar discovery emerged at a site favored by local fishers for snorkeling: a high concentration of sea urchins (Echinoidea). While sea urchins are natural reef inhabitants, excessive populations can hinder coral growth and disrupt reef balance. Such ecological shifts warrant further investigation to understand the long-term impacts.

1 – Two people take reef samples using snorkeling method and bring coral watch chart. One person stays on the boat to record coordinates and secure data sheet.
2 – This coral plate is in a state of concern because it is being hit by reclamation sedimentation.
3 – It is not uncommon to find coral that has shown signs of bleaching.
4 – Healthy corals have strong color pigments.

Empowering Communities with Data

For Pari Island’s residents, these findings are more than data points; they serve as crucial evidence in their fight for climate justice. The observations gathered through citizen science empower the community, providing a scientific basis to advocate for the protection of their natural heritage.

Storytelling about marine life with children

The battle for Pari Island is far from over. Yet, through collective action and open data initiatives, local voices grow louder, demanding accountability and sustainable practices. This island, with its rich marine biodiversity and resilient community, stands as a symbol of hope and determination in the face of environmental injustice.

Images of Coralwatch Chart and tools used for survey

Image of community-led coral monitoring using Coral Watch, capturing local participation.

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About Open Data Day

Open Data Day (ODD) is an annual celebration of open data all over the world. Groups from many countries create local events on the day where they will use open data in their communities. ODD is led by the Open Knowledge Foundation (OKFN) and the Open Knowledge Network.

As a way to increase the representation of different cultures, since 2023 we offer the opportunity for organisations to host an Open Data Day event on the best date over one week. In 2025, a total of 189 events happened all over the world between March 1st and 7th, in 57 countries using 15+ different languages. All outputs are open for everyone to use and re-use.

For more information, you can reach out to the Open Knowledge Foundation team by emailing opendataday@okfn.org. You can also join the Open Data Day Google Group or join the Open Data Day Slack channel to ask for advice, share tips and get connected with others.