Strategic Value of Marble Mine Management for Community Economic Improvement and Challenges Keeping Sustainable Environmental Support in Tulungagung Regency

Abstract

Tulungagung Regency is famous as a marble producer. The utilization of marble resources in Tulungagung has been ongoing since the discovery of the location of a marble mine by the Dutch East Indies government in the 1934s. Over time, more and more companies have joined in setting up marble mines in Tulungagung Regency, especially in Besole Village. The major impact of the marble mines, which is the reduction in natural resources that cannot be renewed. Therefore, although this activity is one step to improve the quality of life to be able to compete. However, this activity is one step towards a resource crisis. The purpose of this study: (1) knowing the management of marble mines to improve the economy of the Tulungagung community, (2) knowing the types of management of marble mines in Tulungagung (3) knowing the challenges of preserving the environment sustainably in the former marble quarry area. This study uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. The data collection techniques used were observation, interviews, and documentation. The collected data were analyzed using triangulation techniques.The results showed that mining in the study area has strategic value to improve the community's economy. The types of community activities in mining management includeminers, calcium processors, dolocytes processors, marble processors (block cutting, cross-cutting, calibrating, putty, polishing), and marketing. The challenge of maintaining environmental sustainability is to integrate ethical business practices and environmental preservation.