Ecosystem Degradation of Peat Forests in the Kampar Peninsula (RIAU): Impacts of Socioeconomic Activities and Restoration Strategies

Amir Arief

Article Details

Ecosystem Degradation of Peat Forests in the Kampar Peninsula (RIAU): Impacts of Socioeconomic Activities and Restoration Strategies

Authors:

Amir Arief

Publisher:

KnE Social Sciences

Journal:

KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 26, pp.241-248

Document Type:

Article

Publication Date:

10/2025

Document Language:

English

Document ID (Org No.):

2001515006

pISSN:

2518-668X

Keywords:

Abstract:

 The peat swamp forest of the Kampar Peninsula in Riau, Indonesia, is one of Southeast Asia’s most critical tropical peatland ecosystems, playing a vital role in carbon storage, hydrological regulation, and biodiversity conservation. However, in the past two decades, this area has undergone severe degradation due to socio-economic activities, particularly land conversion for oil palm and acacia plantations, canal drainage development, and frequent peat fires. This study aims to identify the impacts of these activities on the peatland ecosystem and evaluate the effectiveness of current restoration strategies. A mixed-methods approach was used, including field observations, satellite imagery analysis, in-depth interviews, community surveys, and focus group discussions (FGDs). Findings indicate that peatland degradation has led to significant ecological damage, such as forest cover loss, increased carbon emissions, and disrupted water regulation functions. Additionally, socio-economic impacts include declining household incomes, land tenure conflicts, and greater vulnerability to smoke-related disasters. Restoration efforts, such as rewetting and revegetation, have yet to achieve optimal results due to technical limitations, weak institutional coordination, and insufficient community involvement. The study recommends a holistic, community-based restoration approach supported by integrated policy frameworks to ensure sustainable peatland management in the region.

Article Details

Ecosystem Degradation of Peat Forests in the Kampar Peninsula (RIAU): Impacts of Socioeconomic Activities and Restoration Strategies

Authors:

Amir Arief

Publisher:

KnE Social Sciences

Journal:

KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 26, pp.241-248

Document Type:

Article

Publication Date:

10/2025

Document Language:

English

Document ID (Org No.):

2001515006

pISSN:

2518-668X

community

ecosystem

degradation

participation

Issues

Article Details

Ecosystem Degradation of Peat Forests in the Kampar Peninsula (RIAU): Impacts of Socioeconomic Activities and Restoration Strategies

Authors: Amir Arief

Publisher: KnE Social Sciences

Journal: KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 26, pp.241-248

Document Type: Article

Publication Date: 10/2025

Document Language: English

Document ID (Org No.): 2001515006

pISSN: 2518-668X

community

ecosystem

degradation

participation

Issues

Authors:

Amir Arief

Publisher:

KnE Social Sciences

Journal:

KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 26, pp.241-248

Document Type:

Article

Publication Date:

10/2025

Document Language:

English

Document ID (Org No.):

2001515006

pISSN:

2518-668X