CASE STUDY
SECTOR
Natural Resources and Environment
Source: Airbus Intelligence
sustainable-land-management-and-livelihood-enhancement-in-the-leuser-ecosystem-in-indonesia
Source: Airbus Intelligence
The Leuser Ecosystem, spanning over 2.6 million hectares across the Indonesian provinces of Aceh and North Sumatra, is a critical habitat for some of the world's most endangered species, including the Sumatran elephant, orangutan, rhino, and tiger. It also contains vast peatlands, which act as significant carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in global climate change mitigation efforts. However, the ecosystem is under threat from adjacent oil palm plantations, mills, and farming communities whose activities are encroaching upon the forest. Farmers in the neighbouring Aceh Tamiang district, among the poorest in Indonesia, struggle with high living costs, low palm oil prices, and low yields, which impact their income and food security. To address these challenges, a partnership with the local government has been established to implement a green development plan, enhance farmer livelihoods, and promote sustainable business practices. Data from Starling satellites has shown a 60% reduction in deforestation between 2016 and 2019, primarily on lands owned by large plantations. However, there remains a critical need to support smallholder farmers who continue to encroach on the forest due to economic necessity.
Airbus
Earthworm
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