Nature Harmony and Local Wisdom: Exploring Tri Hita Karana and Traditional Ecological Knowledge of the Bali Aga Community in Environmental Protection

Abstract

Environmental pollution has evolved into a global issue that affects all humans can feel. The most frequent cause is a massive land conversion that neglects the negative effects on the surrounding environment. The Bali Aga indigenous people in Trunyan and Tenganan villages have optimism about preventing a global ecological crisis by maintaining their customary forests. This study examines how the Bali Aga Indigenous people in Trunyan and Tenganan villages maintain their traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), their views on life, and how social institutions impact local wisdom, practices, and unique knowledge. Qualitative research methods—observation, in-depth interviews, and literature reviews—tracked and processed data. The research discovered a belief in Tri Hita Karana, prioritizing human balance with God and nature. The presence of binding customary law (Awig-awig) demonstrates the belief of the Bali Aga community in managing the forest and preserving its environment. The Awig-awig customary law has been implemented in both villages through diverse natural resource management techniques. It is further supported by their knowledge of the various plant species and their responsibilities in maintaining the ecosystem. Amid a global ecological crisis, the findings indicate that the Awig-awig or customary law plays a significant role in preserving the environment.

Tri Hita Karana for environmental resilience: Enhancing coral reef conservation and sustainable practices in Mengiat Beach Bali

“…These constructions are basic and cost-effective, demonstrating MARRS's pragmatic approach. This strategy is consistent with the Palemahan principle of the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which calls for responsible resource management (Qodim, 2023). The utilization of MARRS also fits in with the greater objectives of the joint endeavor.…”

“…This initiative teaches participants how to adopt and securely attach coral fragments onto binding media, which are subsequently placed on the seabed at Mengiat Beach, as a Marine Protected Area (MPA). This hands-on training connects strongly with the Tri Hita Karana philosophy's Pawongan principle, which emphasizes harmonious social interactions and community-centered strategies (Qodim, 2023). This approach enhances the ecological integrity of the maritime environment by encouraging people and communities to actively contribute to coral preservation, as it has been shown by Assa & Adirinekso (2022), who found that in order to prevent coral reef destruction, which has an impact on people's livelihoods, the community has carried out conservation measures in Ujung Genteng, Sukabumi, by involving diverse stakeholders.…”

“…Nonetheless, the science of coral restoration is currently heavily focused on ecological and technical factors, making it difficult to grasp how coral restoration might be used to improve reef resilience in the context of socio-ecological systems (Hein, et al, 2019). This educational strategy aligns with the Tri Hita Karana philosophy's Parahyangan principle, which promotes spiritual appreciation for nature (Qodim, 2023). The effort also resonates with the philosophy's ethos of harmonious humannature relationships by establishing a sense of stewardship and fostering awareness among local communities and stakeholders.…”

“…The principle of Pawongan emphasizes the importance of harmonious social interactions, echoing community-focused approaches to conservation and sustainable practices. Furthermore, the principle of Palemahan highlights responsible resource management, echoing modern principles of environmental stewardship (Qodim, 2023).…”

“…This form of Traditional Environmental Knowledge (TEK) or Complex Knowledge-Practice-Belief System, as stated by Gómez-Baggethun, Corbera, & Reyes-García (2013), serves as a significant step towards bridging the divide between traditional knowledge and modern innovation, all in the tireless pursuit of advancing environmental conservation and sustainable progress (Kuhn & Duerden, 2021). As explained by (Qodim, 2023), Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is a beneficial approach to ecological concerns. It includes both individual and indigenous cultures' ways and practices of interacting with the natural world.…”