Indonesia's Deforestation Surges 66% Amidst Illegal Mining and Poaching

Deforestation in Indonesia has surged by a significant 66% compared to the previous year. According to the "Indonesian Deforestation Status Data (STADI) 2025" released by Yayasan Auriga Nusantara, the deforested area has expanded from 261,575 hectares to 433,751 hectares. This increase is driven by a combination of factors including mining expansion, conversion to agricultural land, a rise in wildlife poaching and trade, and land seizures for industrial areas or disputed territories. Amidst shrinking living spaces, there are individuals who continue to fight for nature in their own ways. Five selected articles from Mongabay Indonesia encapsulate these diverse struggles. One such threat is illegal gold mining encroaching upon the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kerinci Seblat National Park (TNKS) in Jambi. Illegal mining activities using heavy machinery are destroying the forest and causing severe damage within the conservation area. This not only threatens the habitats of protected wildlife but also leads to river pollution and increases the risk of natural disasters in surrounding areas. The practice is believed to involve an organized network, from equipment suppliers to fuel providers, highlighting the need for law enforcement beyond just those at the mining sites. The articles also cover stories such as residents of the Menoreh Mountains protecting birds from poaching, the grim journey of gibbons falling victim to the illegal wildlife trade, the struggle of Rancapinang residents to defend their living spaces, and the changes experienced by the community in West Sumbawa since the arrival of mines and copper smelters. These cases underscore the complex conflict between conservation and development in Indonesia, as well as the challenging realities faced by people on the ground. Source: Mongabay Indonesia