The mangrove ecosystem is an ecosystem that has a very high ecological value. This ecosystem can protect the coastline from abrasion, serve as a habitat for various marine biota, and store a vast biodiversity. The purpose of this research is to analyze the potential of the mangrove ecosystem in Bagan Serdang Village, Pantai Labu District, and to identify the challenges of utilizing the mangrove ecosystem in Bagan Serdang Village, Pantai Labu District. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method by conducting direct observations, interviews, and documentation. The results of this research indicate that the mangrove potential in Bagan Serdang Village is quite good; however, the community has not fully understood the benefits of the mangrove forest due to limited knowledge, community awareness, and the lack of training and outreach provided by the local government and related agencies.

Mangroves are plants whose natural habitat is in coastal areas, they should require the role of coastal communities to manage mangroves. In Pantai Labu District, four types of mangrove plants were found that grow abundantly in the area, namely mangroves (Rhizophora), api-api (Avicennia), nipah (Nypa), and pedada (Sonneratia caseolaris). Although the types of mangroves in this area are quite diverse, unfortunately the community has not utilized them optimally. So far, the community has only taken parts of the mangrove tree trunks to be used as firewood or sold, while the fruit, especially pedada fruit, is often left alone to rot without being utilized. The method in this study uses qualitative descriptive. This study aims to describe and understand the conditions of mangrove utilization and conservation efforts by the community in Pantai Labu District in depth, based on data obtained from observations and interviews with local residents.

This research examines the development of sustainable coastal ecotourism at Sri Mersing Beach, Kuala Lama Village, Serdang Bedagai Regency. This area has tourism potential in the form of a 2-kilometer stretch of white sand beach, a gentle beach gradient, and a row of pine trees that provide a distinctive shade. The research was conducted in March-April 2025 using a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study method. Data collection was carried out through direct observation, in-depth interviews with key informants selected through purposive sampling, and literature study. The research results indicate that the development of ecotourism in this area faces several major challenges, such as limited infrastructure, suboptimal waste management, low capacity of local human resources, and weak institutional coordination. Nevertheless, the preserved natural potential and local uniqueness provide significant opportunities for the development of sustainable ecotourism. This research recommends an integrated approach that involves all stakeholders in formulating eco-tourism development strategies that consider economic, social, and environmental aspects.