Collective Action and the Growth of Shared Environmental Beliefs in Mangrove Ecotourism Development: A Case Study of Lantebung, Makassar

Abstract

Sustainable mangrove ecotourism development can provide economic benefits from the mangrove ecosystem without damaging it, one of which is mangrove ecotourism in Lantebung. This ecotourism development involves various actors such as local government, community management groups (JEKOMALA) and non-governmental organizations. This cross-actor collaboration reflects the process of collective action interacting with one another according to the interrelationships and roles they play in solving problems. This study aims to analyze the form of collective action in the development of a mangrove ecotourism program in Lantebung, Makassar City. Using a qualitative case study approach, this study adopts the collective action theoretical framework developed by Carlsson (2000), which includes six dimensions, namely: (1) Contextual Factors, (2) Problem Definition, (3) Growth and Spread of Common Beliefs, (4) Trigger Factors, (5) Actor Mobilization, and (6) Coordination and Control. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, document studies and field observations involving local government, non-governmental organizations, and civil society. The research results indicate that contextual factors, such as natural resource potential and community involvement, are the primary foundation for collective action. However, Lantebung ecotourism management still faces challenges such as suboptimal coordination and role allocation between stakeholders, low human resource capacity, and weak community management institutions. Nevertheless, the community's enthusiasm for environmental conservation and collective awareness of the importance of mangrove conservation are key strengths in maintaining ecotourism sustainability. This research confirms that the success of mangrove ecotourism development depends not only on natural potential but also on the effectiveness of collective action among stakeholders in creating synergy and sustainable collaborative governance.