Ecosystem vulnerability in Indonesia: drivers, multidimensional impacts, and pathways for sustainable mitigation

Abstract

Indonesia, recognized as one of the world's megabiodiverse countries, is increasingly experiencing ecosystem vulnerability due to accelerating environmental and socio-economic pressures. Ecosystem vulnerability refers to the diminished capacity of ecological systems to withstand and recover from external disturbances. This study employs a systematic literature review combined with selected case analyses to examine the structural drivers, multidimensional impacts, and mitigation pathways of ecosystem vulnerability in Indonesia. The findings reveal that vulnerability arises from the interaction between climate-related stressors and intensive anthropogenic activities, particularly deforestation, land-use change, and pollution, compounded by weak environmental governance and institutional fragmentation. The impacts are multidimensional, encompassing biodiversity loss, declining ecosystem services, increased disaster risks, economic instability in resource-dependent communities, and emerging public health threats. This study proposes an integrated socio-ecological mitigation framework that combines ecosystem restoration, adaptive governance, strengthened regulatory enforcement, and community-based resilience strategies. By synthesizing ecological and socio-economic dimensions, this paper contributes to the conceptual refinement of ecosystem vulnerability in developing country contexts and offers policy-relevant pathways toward sustainable environmental management.