| Abstract: |
Land conversion, massive deforestations and degradation on peat swamp forest increases significant carbon
emission and loss of livelihood of people who lives in the peat areas of Sumatra and Central Kalimantan,
Indonesia. Decreasing number of livelihood options drive people to look back at the existing livelihoods which
can still provide them with a descent living. NTFP producing species such as jelutong (Dyera polyphylla), gemor
(Alseodaphne sp.) and rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) are examples of the tree-based livelihoods option which was
historically popular in the area.
Jelutong and gemor are commercial tree species that are highly valued for its latex, wood, and bark. Both
species spread across the Malaysian peninsular, Singapore and Indonesia (Sumatra and Kalimantan). Now it is
difficult to find them due to deforestation, including in the peat swamp forests in the islands of Sumatra and
Kalimantan. Meanwhile, rubber was first introduced in Kalimantan at the beginning of the 20th century, which
expanded rapidly throughout the island, and was introduced earlier in Sumatra.
Interestingly, current trend showed that many villages in the peat swamp forest area in Sumatra and Central
Kalimantan rely on rubber as the main source of livelihoods to the local people. In some areas in Sumatra,
jelutong is also popular as one of the economically potential indigenous species in the peatland. Development
efforts on promoting and enhancing both jelutong and rubber-based agroforestry in the peatland within these
landscapes can improve local livelihoods, reduce the environmental pressure to the remaining peat swamp
forest and also providing potential environmental service. |
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