Wildlife & Conservation

WHY IT IS AT RISK?

Despite its status as an internationally recognized biodiversity hotspot and environmental treasure, as well as its protection under Indonesian Law, the Leuser Ecosystem – a tropical paradise – is being destroyed by unsustainable human activities.

Large global companies and popular brands are responsible for the destruction of this ecosystem in order to produce commodities like palm oil. This ubiquitous ingredient can be found in over 50% of supermarket products, from personal care items to various food items.

The problem lies in the fact that palm oil requires nutrient-rich soil to grow, prompting companies to resort to cutting down the Leuser in order to grow it. This has resulted in the destruction of the last intact rainforest and peatlands of Indonesia, with corporate profits directly linked to the cutting down, burning, and destruction of the ecosystem.

The development of new roadways and communities, coupled with these unsustainable practices, is causing species extinction and habitat destruction on an unprecedented scale.

WHAT WE ARE DOING

Together with both local and international organizations, we have collaborated to deploy camera trap technologies in strategic areas outside the borders of the Gunung Leuser National Park.

This innovative approach enables us to observe and track the behaviours, populations, and migrations of a diverse array of animal species, including the renowned “Big Six” of the Leuser Ecosystem, namely Tigers, Elephants, Rhinoceros, Clouded Leopards, Sun Bears, and Orangutans. Additionally, we can also observe and study various types of macro nature such as insects, birds, reptiles, and even some fungi.

We are proud to be partnered with Doctor Swayamsiddha Mohapatha from Wildlife and Conservation photography in the delivery of this exciting project.