Legal Construction of Silica Sand Mining Activities in Natuna Causing Environmental Damage Impact

Abstract

This research, titled "Legal Construction of Silica Sand Mining Activities in Indonesia (Natuna) Causing Environmental Damage," evaluates the legal framework governing silica sand mining in Natuna, Indonesia, and its impact on environmental degradation. The study uncovers significant weaknesses in the current legal framework for environmental protection, particularly in the context of silica sand mining. This mining in Natuna causes extensive environmental damage, affecting terrestrial and marine ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss, land degradation, and water pollution. The research highlights a key failure in law enforcement against silica sand mining activities, attributed to a lack of environmental awareness, rampant corruption, and deficiencies in the legal framework. The paper advocates for legal changes to strengthen environmental protection, including increased legal sanctions for violators and improvements in the legal framework for more effective regulation of silica sand mining. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the crucial roles of government and society in environmental conservation. It recommends that the government should tighten supervision over mining activities and encourage eco-friendly technologies, while also empowering society to actively participate in monitoring and reporting environmental violations. The study also explores the environmental, social, and legal implications of silica sand mining in Natuna. It discusses the long-term ecological losses due to environmental damage and outlines the adverse social consequences for local communities, such as fishermen, who depend on natural resources for their livelihood. Additionally, the paper critically examines Indonesia's legal framework regarding silica sand mining, assessing its adequacy in protecting the environment and suggesting areas for legal improvement. Overall, the paper contributes to the discourse on sustainable and equitable natural resource management in Indonesia. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that includes legal, environmental, and social considerations. Effective legal reform and adherence to environmental and community welfare standards are crucial for ensuring sustainability and equity for all parties involved.