ASIA
SAFEGUARDING PEATLAND IN INDONESIA
Peat ecosystems take centuries to form and are a key component of Earth ’ s carbon cycle . These wetlands safely absorb and store carbon at a higher rate than other types of forest while also hosting a wealth of biodiversity .
The majority of tropical peat habitat is found in Southeast Asia , and unfortunately , this habitat is being cleared , drained and burned for agricultural development and palm oil plantations . When they are intentionally burned , peatlands release centuries ’ worth of stored carbon into the atmosphere .
Rainforest Trust has made protecting the peat ecosystems of Southeast Asia , and the beautiful wildlife they support , a conservation priority . In January 2020 , we worked with our local partner , Yayasan Konservasi Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia ( YK-RASI ) to establish the 106,544-acre Aquatic Reserve of Pesut Mahakam Habitat . The new protected area encompasses both critical terrestrial habitat , like peat swamps and forests , as well as riverine ecosystems .
Our partner is also working with local communities to sustainably maintain the natural function of the swamps and riparian forest , allowing improved water quality and safe management of aquatic resources .
This success is a huge step in our work to conserve threatened peatland and is pivotal in keeping carbon stored , protecting species and ensuring the health of communities .
This project was supported by our generous donors with leadership gifts from Gerald and Rosemary Bradley , Lawrence Thompson ; the Conservation Action Fund and the SAVES Challenge . Thank you .
The diversity of the landscape ensures protection for a wide range of species , including at least 298 bird species , 147 endemic fish species , 27 reptile species and 5 primate species , such as the endemic Endangered Proboscis Monkey and Critically Endangered Bornean Orangutan . Most importantly , nearly the entire population of a Critically Endangered subspecies of the Irrawaddy Dolphin that exists only in the Mahakam River will find safety in the reserve .
Peat ecosystems absorb 2X THE CARBON OF A NORMAL FOREST 90 % of which is stored underground
CO₂
PHOTOS Top : The Endangered Proboscis Monkey , by Kiwisoul . Bottom : The Mahakam River Dolphin , by YK-RASI . Right : A village in the wetlands of Indonesia , by YK-RASI .
PROTECTED IN ASIA
2020
1,428,317
ACRES SAVED
2020
200,173,38
CO₂
CO₂
CO ₂
CO₂
CO ₂
CO₂ CO₂
CO₂
CO ₂
CO₂
CO₂
CO₂
CO₂
CO ₂
CO₂
1988-2020
4,298,602
1988-2020
582,825,9