Danau Seran, a pit lake in an ex-mining area as an opportunity for sustainable tourism

Abstract

The mining activities left so many environmental impacts on its ex-mining areas. Some of the abandoned open-cut mines often filled by groundwater or rainwater and turn into pit lakes. Despite its toxic water and other environmental problem, this pit lakesbecome a tourist attraction in some areas. This research aimed to analyse whether a pit lake in the ex-mining area is potential for sustainable tourism and how it impacts the environment and local community. This research took DanauSeran (Seran Lake), ex-diamond mining as a case study. Some field research and interviews with local communities were done during this research. The environmental condition of the area shows that the water of Danau Seran is acidic and harmful for long term daily use. No green plantation is seen in the area. Based on 3A tourism principle (Attractiveness, Amenity, Accessibilities), Danau Seran has fulfilled almost all principles of 3A. The result shows that Danau Seran as a pit lake needs to improve its environmental quality and community development through reclamation. Hence, this will create an opportunity for sustainable tourism.