Nickel extraction threatens archipelago tourism in Indonesia

A nickel mining project in Raja Ampat, Indonesia has raised significant environmental concerns due to its potential to harm the archipelago’s ecotourism industry.

Raja Ampat, located in West Papua province in eastern Indonesia, is renowned globally for its rich marine ecosystem and stunning natural scenery, making it a top destination for diving enthusiasts.

The region is also distinguished by its abundant biodiversity, both terrestrial and marine, and is recognized by UNESCO as a Global Geopark.

Recently, mining activities have produced large volumes of sediment and mud that are flowing into the sea, causing nearshore waters to become turbid. This sedimentation poses a direct threat to coral ecosystems which support more than 75% of the world’s coral species.

Environmental experts warn that when corals are buried under sediment, it disrupts nutrient exchange, marine life activities, and biological processes. The resulting coral mortality undermines the broader marine ecosystem, leading to habitat loss for numerous fish and marine animals.

This ecological disruption reverberates through the tourism value chain including diving operations, homestays, and boat services. Reduced water clarity and biodiversity diminish the area's appeal to visitors, directly impacting local residents’ income.

Local indigenous groups such as the Kawei people, along with tourism associations, have voiced strong opposition, calling for a halt to mining operations. Regional authorities and international organisations have also urged Indonesia to strengthen protection laws for small islands, enforce stricter environmental assessments, and impose bans on mining in coral reef zones.

In response, Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has temporarily suspended operations by Gag Nikel, one of the companies mining nickel in Raja Ampat.

The ministry has also dispatched an inspection team to audit several mining licenses (WIUP) in the area to assess conditions on the ground.