Sustainable Agriculture Promotion in Peatland Areas to Prevent Palm Oil Expansion
Project partner: Yayasan Gambut
Extensive deforestation and peatland degradation in Desa Pematang Duku (Bengkalis District, Indonesia) has resulted in biodiversity loss, increased fire risk and high carbon emissions.
This project focuses on restoring and sustainably managing degraded peatlands in this area. To address the various challenges, an integrated approach has been adopted, combining hydrological rehabilitation, revegetation with native species, fire prevention and community-based agroforestry using Liberica coffee.
50 local farmers will also be trained on sustainable land management practices that avoid burning, aiming for an 80% adoption rate. By integrating ecological restoration with livelihood development, the initiative strengthens community resilience, reduces fire risk and contributes to climate mitigation and biodiversity protection on peatlands.
Outputs and Outcomes:
Four canal blocks constructed that have raised groundwater levels.
Three Fire Danger Rating System boards installed.
A 7m x 8m nursery established with >4,500 Liberica coffee seedlings.
A total of 2,500 Liberica coffee seedlings and 1,500 Geronggang (Cratoxylum arborescens) seedlings planted on community-managed peatland.
A zero-burning workshop conducted in Pematang Duku with 69 participants. An average post-test result of 8.96/10, reflected improved knowledge and readiness to apply sustainable peatland management practices.
50 famers trained in agrofrestry.
Establishment of one community-based non-timber forest product enterprise.
