Tourism at the Edge: Community Narratives of Climate Change and Coastal Erosion in Lombok

Supiandi Supiandi

doi:10.53893/ats.v2i4.69

Authors

Supiandi Supiandi Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Nusa Tenggara Barat

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53893/ats.v2i4.69

Keywords:

climate change, coastal erosion, community adaptation, Lombok tourism

Abstract

Coastal tourism in Indonesia faces growing challenges from climate change, particularly sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and unpredictable weather patterns. Lombok, an island increasingly positioned as a competitor to Bali in international tourism, is experiencing significant environmental pressures that directly affect local livelihoods and tourism development. This study explores how coastal communities in Lombok perceive and respond to climate change and coastal erosion within the tourism economy. Drawing on a qualitative research design, data were collected through in-depth interviews with fisherfolk, homestay owners, community leaders, and tourism workers, complemented by participant observation in coastal villages and tourism sites. The findings reveal that residents are acutely aware of environmental changes, describing shoreline retreat, saltwater intrusion, and declining fish stocks as everyday realities. While some view tourism as a pathway to adapt and diversify livelihoods, others fear that environmental degradation threatens both cultural identity and economic sustainability. Narratives also highlight the importance of local knowledge, spiritual beliefs, and community initiatives in shaping adaptive practices. By foregrounding community voices, the study contributes to critical debates on climate change and tourism, emphasizing that sustainable tourism in Lombok depends not only on infrastructural resilience but also on integrating local perspectives into adaptation strategies.

Author Biography

Supiandi Supiandi, Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Nusa Tenggara Barat

Faculty of Economics and Business

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