Indonesia experienced a 27% uptick in primary forest loss in 2023, as reported by the World Resources Institute (WRI). However, this increase is still considered historically low compared to rates in the previous decade. The loss of forests is attributed to various factors, including the mining industry’s demand for nickel, which is essential for the green energy transition. The data, shared on the Global Forest Watch platform, highlights the ongoing challenges of deforestation in Indonesia.
Indonesia, home to the world’s third-largest rainforest, has seen over 74 million hectares of rainforest logged, burned, or degraded for various purposes since 1950. The country is a significant producer of palm oil, coal, and pulp for paper, as well as other resources like oil, gas, rubber, and tin. The expansion of industrial plantations in Kalimantan and West Papua has contributed to the loss of primary forests, impacting the biodiversity and carbon storage capacity of these ecosystems.
The Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry has acknowledged the expansion of industrial plantations in concessions granted before the current administration took office in 2014. The loss of primary forests in Indonesia, particularly due to mining activities, is a matter of concern for conservation organizations. Deforestation linked to nickel mining has occurred across Sumatra, Sulawesi, Mlauku, and Kalimantan, raising questions about the sustainability of the country’s nickel industry.
While large-scale deforestation has reduced significantly in recent years, small-scale primary forest loss remains a prevalent issue. Efforts to curb deforestation, including a freeze on new permits for palm oil plantations by President Joko Widodo in 2018, have shown some positive results. However, protected areas like Tesso Nilo National Park and Rawa Singkil Wildlife Reserve continue to face challenges from illegal logging activities, endangering critically endangered species like tigers and elephants.
Despite challenges, the ongoing El Nino weather phenomenon in Indonesia has contributed to a quieter fire season due to increased fire prevention measures and investments by the government. The 2015-2016 El Nino event led to widespread fires and haze across Southeast Asia, causing respiratory illnesses and displacing thousands of people. The current efforts in fire prevention in Indonesia have shown improvement, with a focus on suppressing fires and protecting the country’s valuable ecosystems.
Overall, Indonesia’s forest loss trends reflect a complex interplay of factors, including industrial expansion, mining activities, and efforts to curb deforestation. While the recent increase in primary forest loss is a cause for concern, the country’s progress in fire prevention and conservation measures indicates a positive trajectory towards sustainable forest management. Ongoing collaboration between government, industry, and civil society will be crucial in addressing the challenges of deforestation and protecting Indonesia’s rich biodiversity.
