In the heart of Indonesia’s Riau Province, a delicate dance is unfolding between people and peatlands. These vast, waterlogged landscapes are not just critical for environmental regulation, but also sustain the livelihoods of local communities. However, human activities are pushing these ecosystems to the brink, threatening both the environment and the people who depend on it. A recent study, led by Mohammad Yunus from the Department of Integrated Science at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, sheds light on this complex relationship and offers a roadmap for more effective peatland management.
The research, published in ‘Trees, Forests and People’ (translated to ‘Pohon, Hutan dan Orang’), focused on the Sungai Kiyap-Sungai Kampar Kiri Peatland Hydrological Unit. The findings reveal a stark disconnect between local knowledge and practices, particularly in sustainable agriculture. While many residents understand the importance of peatlands, translating that knowledge into action remains a challenge. “There’s a significant gap between what people know and what they do,” Yunus explains. “This is particularly evident in agricultural practices, where traditional methods often lead to peatland degradation.”
The study identified several key factors influencing peatland protection. Age, education, and participation in training or workshops were found to boost knowledge levels. Meanwhile, the length of residence and household income played crucial roles in shaping protective behaviors. Yunus highlights, “Education and training are vital for enhancing knowledge, but economic factors and community engagement are equally important for driving action.”
The implications of this research extend far beyond environmental conservation. For the energy sector, peatlands are a significant carbon sink, and their degradation could release vast amounts of greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change. Effective peatland management is not just an environmental imperative but also a strategic business consideration. As the energy sector increasingly focuses on sustainability, understanding and mitigating the impacts of peatland degradation will be crucial.
The study offers several recommendations to bridge the knowledge-practice gap. Disseminating best management practices, diversifying livelihood options, scaling up sustainable agriculture, and providing financial incentives are all key strategies. Moreover, fostering mutual collaboration and long-term commitment among community groups is essential for developing innovative approaches to peatland protection.
As the world grapples with climate change, the findings from this study could shape future developments in peatland management. By understanding the socio-economic determinants of peatland protection, policymakers and businesses can design more effective strategies. This research underscores the importance of community engagement and sustainable practices, not just for environmental conservation but also for economic stability and energy security. The future of peatlands, and the people who depend on them, hangs in the balance.