Innovation and policies in water resource management to achieve the life below water goal in Indonesia

Abstract Innovation and policies are critical for achieving sustainability, particularly within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) framework. However, the relationship between innovation and policies in achieving the life below water goal of SDG 14 remains unclear. The research question is, what are the innovations and policies on water resources management to achieve the life below water goal? This study investigates the relationship between innovations and water resource management policies to achieve the life below-water goal in Indonesia. Using a qualitative descriptive method, data was gathered through library research on innovations and policies relevant to SDG 14. The findings were presented in tables and analyzed descriptively. The study reveals a significant relevance between innovations and policies in achieving the life below water goal. Indonesia successfully met several targeted indicators for SDG 14 in 2023, including reducing marine pollution, conserving marine areas, and empowering small-scale fishers. However, the number of innovations and policies remains limited. The study underscores the importance of strengthening the integration between innovations and policies to ensure the sustainability of marine ecosystems and achieve long-term water resource management goals. This alignment is essential to address current challenges and maximize the potential of existing innovations and regulatory frameworks.