In the heart of Central Kalimantan, a silent battle is being waged for the future of sustainable agriculture. As vast expanses of rice paddies give way to oil palm plantations and mining sites, the very foundation of local farming communities is under threat. But a glimmer of hope emerges from Wuran Village, where a groundbreaking study led by S Saijo from Universitas Muhammadiyah Palangkaraya is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
The conversion of agricultural land into energy-intensive oil palm plantations and mining sites has been a contentious issue, with environmentalists and local communities often at odds with commercial interests. The energy sector, hungry for palm oil and minerals, has been a significant driver of this land use change. However, this trend comes at a cost, with the availability of land suitable for farming rapidly declining.
Saijo’s research, published in the Bulletin of Community Service, focuses on assisting local communities in identifying and managing sustainable agricultural land. The study, conducted from July to August 2024, employed a combination of interviews and soil suitability surveys to assess the land’s potential. The results were revealing, with 90% of respondents finding the program beneficial. “The community’s enthusiasm for the assistance provided indicates a strong potential for sustainable agricultural practices,” Saijo noted.
The soil surveys, which used pH as a primary indicator, revealed a low pH of 4.5. This acidic soil is far from ideal for farming, necessitating interventions to raise the pH closer to the neutral level of 6. To address this, the research team implemented improvements in water management, including the construction of bunds, and applied lime to the soil.
Nutrient analysis showed that levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) were categorized as moderate to low. To enhance land productivity, the study recommends increasing doses of urea, SP-36, and KCl according to guidelines, along with the application of organic amendments such as straw.
The findings of this study have significant implications for the energy sector. As the demand for palm oil and minerals continues to grow, so too does the pressure on agricultural land. This research provides a roadmap for sustainable land use, one that balances the needs of the energy sector with the preservation of agricultural land.
Moreover, the study’s focus on community engagement and empowerment is a testament to the power of collaboration. By working hand-in-hand with local communities, the research team was able to gain valuable insights and implement effective solutions. This approach not only ensures the sustainability of agricultural practices but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among the community members.
As we look to the future, the lessons learned from this study could shape the development of more sustainable agricultural strategies in the region. The energy sector, in particular, has a significant role to play in this transition. By adopting sustainable land use practices, the sector can help preserve agricultural land, support local communities, and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
The findings of this study, published in the Bulletin of Community Service (Buletin Pengabdian), serve as a call to action for all stakeholders. The future of sustainable agriculture in East Barito District is not just a matter of scientific research but a collective effort that involves the energy sector, local communities, and policymakers. Together, we can ensure that the land continues to nourish and sustain future generations.