This documentary brings to light the story of seagrass—a flowering marine plant often mistaken for mere ocean weeds. While coral reefs and mangroves are already in the spotlight of the conservation world, seagrass quietly plays a vital role in coastal ecosystems. It serves as a nursery and shelter for marine species and stabilizes seabed sediments to prevent coastal erosion. Moreover, seagrass efficiently captures and stores blue carbon—the carbon absorbed from the atmosphere and locked away in coastal marine ecosystems—making it a powerful natural ally in the fight against climate change. Despite that, seagrass is one of the ocean’s most essential yet overlooked protectors.

Set in Pramuka Island, part of the Thousand Islands archipelago near Jakarta, this film explores the deep connections between seagrass, local communities, and the natural environment. From the fishermen who rely on fish nurtured in seagrass beds to conservationists working to restore damaged meadows, these stories show how this plant is intertwined with daily life and local identity. Seagrass is not just a biological asset, it is a foundation of economic, cultural, and ecological sustainability.

Yet the threats facing seagrass continue to grow. Coastal development, plastic pollution, climate change, and a lack of public awareness have led to the degradation of seagrass meadows across Indonesia. On Pramuka Island, the total area of seagrass has declined since 2016, though targeted restoration efforts have led to slight increases in coverage. Through expert interviews, community perspectives, and scientific data, this film uncovers the urgent need to recognize and act on seagrass conservation.

“Seagrass: The Forgotten Guardian of the Sea” is a call to look beneath the surface. It reminds us that not all ocean heroes always dazzle in color or have majestic presence. Through visual storytelling and narratives, this documentary encourages viewers to rediscover the importance of seagrass—an unsung yet irreplaceable protector of coastal life and balance.

This is a republished work, originally premiered on the CNN Indonesia YouTube channel under the title “Lamun: Penjaga Laut yang Terlupakan.”