Assessing community perceptions on the socio-economic feasibility of green mussel cultivation in Demak, Indonesia

Abstract

Coastal communities in Demak, Indonesia, face increasing socio-environmental challenges due to land subsidence, sea level rise, and economic vulnerability. This study assesses the socio-economic feasibility of green mussel (Perna viridis) cultivation on bamboo structures as a Nature-based Solution (NbS) for coastal protection and livelihood improvement. A structured survey was conducted among 337 respondents across 13 villages, focusing on demographic distribution, financial and market feasibility and key barriers. Using Latent Class Cluster Analysis, three distinct clusters were identified. Cluster 1 had balanced demographics and moderate interest in green mussel farming, with concerns over capital and poaching. Cluster 2 showed strong investment interest, easy market access, and highlighted poaching and licensing as key issues. Cluster 3 had the oldest, least educated group, low investment interest, and mentioned lack of capital and skills as key barriers. The study found that proximity to infrastructure and aquaculture exposure influence investment interest in green mussel farming. Younger, educated individuals and aquaculture workers showed more willingness to invest. These insights highlight the importance of tailoring NbS interventions to local socio-economic and geographic contexts. Targeted microcredit schemes, capacity building, community-based monitoring and participatory design processes are necessary to enhance the socio-economic feasibility of green mussel farming on bamboo structures.