President Prabowo Subianto views palm oil as a strategic sector for Indonesia’s economy, energy security, and biofuel development. Palm oil contributes significantly to exports and rural employment, making expansion attractive for national growth.
Threats to Forests and Biodiversity
However, sawit expansion has long been linked to deforestation and biodiversity loss. Research shows that converting forests into oil palm plantations reduces wildlife habitats and accelerates the loss of protected ecosystems, including peatlands.
Climate Impact and Carbon Emissions
Clearing forests, especially peatlands, releases large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Studies confirm that palm oil expansion contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, weakening Indonesia’s climate commitments and increasing risks of floods and forest fires.
Social Impacts on Local Communities
Beyond the environment, expansion often triggers land conflicts. Indigenous peoples and local farmers face land dispossession, unclear land rights, and unequal access to economic benefits from plantations.
Sustainability Limits
Palm oil is economically important, but the expansion of new land by clearing creates environmental and social risks. Without focus on replanting, and impaired land, continued growth threatens the area's long-term sustainability.