The nexus between ecological competence, forest area management, and sustainable agroecosystem performance for communities around Mount Merbabu National Park (MMbNP)

Abstract

MMbNP, with an area of approximately 5,725 hectares through several regulations, is designated as a conservation area and limits human activities to preserve agroecosystems and support natural and cultural tourism activities. MMbNP has the potential to provide food and a source of income for people living around the area, but the intersections that occur cause social, economic, and ecological conflicts of interest. This study aims to determine the relationship between ecological competence, forest area management, and sustainable agroecosystem performance. With a total of 60 respondents, this study used purposive location selection methods and snowballed random sampling to determine the sample size. The data analysis examination uses a partial least square and a descriptive-analytical method. The results of the study state that ecological competence is significant for forest area management. Forest area management has a significant effect on sustainable agroecosystem performance. Environmental competence significantly affects the performance of sustainable agroecosystems through forest area management. The conclusion is that implementing systematic and comprehensive management stimulates the community's active participation in silviculture and biodiversity and increases environmental competence. The performance of sustainable agroecosystems strengthens the role of government, the local economy, health and nutrition, community and culture, and also promotes environmental conservation.