Ecological condition of seagrass meadows around sea-based tin mining activities in the waters of Bangka Belitung Islands, Indonesia

Bangka Belitung islands have long been major tin producers, impacting the environment, including coastal ecosystems. Tin extraction from the seabed increases water turbidity and alters chemical composition, adversely affecting seagrass meadows. This study investigated the ecological condition of seagrass meadows around sea-based tin mining activities on the islands. We mapped seagrass habitat extent and calculated the Seagrass Ecological Quality Index (SEQI) at five locations reflecting varying environmental impacts of tin mining. Satellite imagery from Landsat 7 ETM+ (2000) and Sentinel L2A (2022) was used, showing higher mapping accuracy during low tide. Our analysis revealed that seagrass meadows near mining sites had low species diversity and significant habitat decline over the past two decades (82.79 %). SEQI values were lower, and Total Suspended Solid (TSS) levels were higher near mining operations. This study underscores the detrimental effects of tin mining on seagrass meadows, urging stringent regulations, rehabilitation, and continuous monitoring for sustainability.