Hasanuddin University (Unhas) directly develops and implements marine ecosystem restoration technology through collaborative research and partnerships with the marine sector to minimize damage to aquatic ecosystems. One of its main initiatives is the development of the Sea Ranching Artificial Reef in Bonetambung Island, Makassar, carried out together with Shanghai Ocean University and Guangdong Ocean University as a habitat rehabilitation model as well as sustainable fisheries management.

The technology applied consists of artificial reefs made of concrete and steel structures designed as substrates for the recruitment of young corals and as habitat for marine biota. These structures are placed at a depth of 10–15 meters in areas experiencing coral reef degradation, then periodically monitored using underwater monitoring methods to evaluate the recovery of ecological functions. Monitoring results indicate the beginning formation of benthic communities, increased fish presence as a foraging area, and the attachment of juvenile corals from various species, signaling a gradual recovery of the habitat.

As part of direct implementation to industry and coastal communities, Unhas also organizes a Training Course on Coral Reef Restoration & Marine Ranching Techniques. This course transfers restoration technology to academics, the community, and marine stakeholders through a scientific approach that covers site surveys, environmental quality assessment, technical planning, installation of artificial reefs, coral transplantation, as well as monitoring and sustainable management systems. This marine ranching approach aims to increase fish stocks while reducing pressure on natural habitats through technology-based ecosystem restoration.

Unhas further promotes cross-sector collaboration through the involvement of government, the fisheries sector, marine industries, and policymakers to strengthen the application of evidence-based technologies for aquatic ecosystem protection. This collaboration supports the integration of ecosystem restoration, fisheries management, and sustainable marine-sector practices to prevent further degradation of coral reef ecosystems.

Mangrove rehabilitation as a coastal protection technology
In addition to coral reef ecosystems, Unhas applies mangrove rehabilitation  technology to prevent coastal ecosystem degradation. Through Thematic Community Service Program (KKN) students in Pinrang Regency, Unhas team planted 200 mangrove seedlings (Rhizophora spp. and Avicennia spp.) in coastal and estuarine areas. The selection of these two species was based on their adaptation to local conditions, with ecological functions as erosion barriers, erosion controllers, wave dampeners, as well as protection for fish ponds and coastal settlements. The program is equipped with a weekly monitoring system involving the community to ensure the long-term success of restoration, while collaboration with Kyoto University supports further research and knowledge exchange on mangrove conservation and the preservation of the Wallacea ecosystem.

In Wiring Tasi Village, Unhas also established a community-based mangrove restoration technology. A total of 500 mangrove seedlings are cultivated on the coast before being transplanted to rehabilitation locations, involving village government, environmental groups, schools, and the local community. This approach ensures the availability of local seedlings that match ecosystem characteristics while building community capacity for sustainable coastal management.

Unhas additionally supports mangrove ecosystem conservation through the digitization of the Buriko Village Mangrove Tourism. KKN students developed a logo, profile video, 3D site plan design, road signage, and social media as means for managing and educating about sustainable ecotourism. By improving public awareness and management capacity, the initiative contributes to reducing human pressures on mangrove ecosystems.

Through the integration of artificial reef technology, marine ranching, mangrove rehabilitation, propagation of local species, and science-based monitoring, Unhas directly produces innovative solutions that help the marine industry and coastal communities minimize aquatic ecosystem damage and enhance the resilience of marine and coastal habitats.