A Study of Community Strategies for Mitigating Social Change in the Mining Industry in Gampong Balee, Meurebo District, West Aceh Regency, Indonesia

This study examines the strategies employed by the Gampong Balee community in Meurebo District, West Aceh Regency, to mitigate social changes caused by the mining industry. Additionally, it seeks to identify the forms of social change resulting from inadequate mitigation efforts in the community. Mitigation refers to a series of actions aimed at reducing disaster risk, which includes both physical development and the enhancement of public awareness, as well as strengthening response capacities. Informants were selected using a random sampling technique, which is appropriate when the population is considered homogeneous (sharing similar characteristics). This research employs a qualitative method with a descriptive approach to analyze the issue. The findings reveal that the mining industry’s presence has led to significant social changes in the Gampong Balee community. The community expresses a need for mitigation measures to address environmental degradation and other changes. The mitigation strategies implemented by the community include planning, mapping, and socialization/counseling efforts. The study also identifies several forms of social change resulting from the lack of effective mitigation by the mining industry, including: the acquisition of agricultural land, erosion of traditional social habits, damage to road infrastructure, and environmental pollution.