Turangga Resources Initiates Peatland Care and Rehabilitation Program

Tumbang Nusa, 27 December 2024 - Turangga Resources has launched a peatland care and rehabilitation program following the handover of a 800-hectare Watershed Rehabilitation (DAS) area in the Tumbang Nusa Special Purpose Forest Area (KHDTK). This initiative is a collaboration between Turangga Resources, BPDAS Kahayan, and BPSILHK Banjarbaru as part of their shared commitment to environmental conservation. The event was held in Tumbang Nusa on December 27–28, 2024.

BJ Basuki, Director of Turangga Resources, emphasized that the tree planting activities symbolize a significant hope for the recovery and sustainability of the vital peatland ecosystem. He noted that the program includes the signing of a monument as a formal commitment from all involved parties to continue supporting this initiative.

"This collaboration reflects a strong commitment to ensuring the success of watershed rehabilitation, not merely as an obligation but as an investment in a healthier ecosystem," Basuki stated. He added that the program's main mission is both ecological and economic recovery, aiming to restore the ecological and economic functions of the peatland area.

The program’s primary goal is to prevent further degradation while creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities. Tumbang Nusa KHDTK is envisioned as a tangible example of how a region can be managed to preserve the environment while improving community welfare. "What we are doing today is proof that concrete solutions for climate change and environmental damage are not just rhetoric but real actions," he said.

Meanwhile, the Head of BPDAS Kahayan expressed optimism that this peatland care program could serve as a model for similar initiatives in the future. He highlighted that the KHDTK Tumbang Nusa area has the potential to become a successful example of peatland ecosystem restoration and protection.

Globally recognized as one of the most productive yet vulnerable ecosystems, peatlands play a crucial role in carbon absorption and climate change mitigation. "However, peatland degradation can lead to forest and land fires (karhutla), causing significant negative impacts both locally and globally," he warned.