Meukek District

Project background

Forest fires, shifting cultivation and the expansion of commercial plantation areas present significant threats to the habitats of critically endangered and vulnerable species. In particular, the eastern region bordering the national park has witnessed alarming levels of deforestation from 2001 to 2021, severely impacting the delicate balance of this ecosystem.

Currently, the land cover at the project site includes a mix of primary and secondary dryland forests, shrubs, and open land, all of which are vital for sustaining the unique flora and fauna endemic to Sumatra. However, these precious ecosystems face relentless threats, including illegal logging and increasing human-animal conflicts.

Location & total area

BITRA's project encompasses 13,594 hectares situated within a single village forest in South Aceh. The Village Forest (Hutan Desa) is a buffer zone for Gunung Leuser National Park which is designated as the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra (TRHS) by UNESCO, and holds the greatest potential for long-term conservation of the distinctive and diverse biota of Sumatra, including many endangered species.    

The village forests suffer deforestation threats due to forest land fire, unsustainable agriculture and animal hunting, while the main threats to the area are illegal logging and human-animal conflict.  

What is special about this project

BITRA is dedicated to the protection of Sumatran tigers and the reduction of human-wildlife conflicts, employing a collaborative approach that involves local communities, governmental entities, and various organisations. As a buffer zone adjacent to a national park, the project benefits from a low deforestation rate and concentrates its efforts on conserving biodiversity. Its strategic focus aligns with the broader biodiversity objectives of the Rimba Collective portfolio, significantly contributing to its conservation outcomes.

How we add value to this project

The Rimba Collective is proud to partner with BITRA Indonesia in a transformative initiative centered on community-based forest management aimed at preserving and restoring vital forest ecosystems. 

Key components of the initiative include biodiversity monitoring and support for sustainable livelihoods, ensuring that the community thrives while safeguarding their natural environment. In addition to fostering economic development, the project emphasises educational initiatives and women empowerment, aiming to uplift the local community holistically.

More so, despite a relatively low rate of deforestation in the HD location over the past decade, the threat of land clearing for agriculture looms large near the Jambo Papeun Village Forest. Without proactive intervention, this trend is likely to continue, driven by the community's pressing need for small-scale agricultural land. The Rimba Collective and BITRA Indonesia are committed to addressing these challenges, ensuring that both the forest and the community can flourish together.