Green-blue workforce readiness for mangrove conservation: Community competency clusters and participatory drivers in Indonesia

Abstract

The urgent need to address climate change, coastal degradation, and youth unemployment has led to growing global interest in green-blue jobs employment opportunities that contribute to environmental restoration and sustainable livelihoods. In Indonesia, mangrove ecosystems offer critical ecological services and significant potential for green-blue workforce development. However, there is a limited understanding of the specific competencies required to enable community participation in such opportunities. This study investigates the skill and socio-economic factors influencing engagement in green-blue jobs within the context of mangrove conservation in Bali. Using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), we identify three core competency models: (1) feasibility and stakeholder engagement, (2) market, financing, and business development, and (3) institutional and gender-inclusive capacity building. All competency factors significantly affect willingness to participate (p < 0.001). Socio-economic characteristics such as income (p < 0.001), education level (p < 0.05), age group (p < 0.001), and marital status (p < 0.01) also shape engagement outcomes. The findings emphasize the need for targeted education programs and inclusive policies that integrate stakeholder collaboration, gender sensitivity, and innovative financing to support sustainable employment and mangrove conservation efforts.