Working Together on Peatland Management in Temiang

Climate change is an unavoidable challenge. Over the preceding 10 years, increasing global warming has contributed to different forms of extreme weather around the world. Citing brin.go.id, the original article referred to climate and atmosphere researcher Erma Yulihastin’s account of a January 2023 European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) estimate of 1.21°C of global warming. It also referred to a 30-year warming trend and a level of 1.5°C in March 2023. She explained that climate change affects different parts of Indonesia in different ways.

In response to these challenges, Yayasan Gambut sees a need for climate mitigation and adaptation. Its response takes the form of activities carried out in partnership with villages and community groups.

Yayasan Gambut monitoring the condition of canal blocks in Temiang Village

In recent years, Yayasan Gambut has worked in villages around the Giam Siak Kecil landscape in Bengkalis Regency to support fire prevention and sustainable peatland management.

Temiang is one of its partner villages for low-carbon activities and peatland fire prevention. Collaboration with community groups and the village government is intended to turn climate action into practical local measures.

“In Temiang, we have supported activities including red ginger cultivation without burning, coffee agroforestry for the women’s farmer group, canal block construction and capacity building. We also support the distribution and development of their red ginger products. What we want to demonstrate is that communities around forests can sustain their economies through non-timber forest products without sacrificing the environment,” said Mulyadi, Director of Yayasan Gambut.

Yayasan Gambut discussing programmes and product innovation with the Makmur Jaya Women Farmers’ Group in Temiang

Innovation, Initiative and Community Action

Effective collaboration reflects a shared understanding that responding to climate change requires ecological considerations. Yayasan Gambut works with the Makmur Jaya Women Farmers’ Group in Temiang. The group has responded positively to training and other support provided with partners. Training in red ginger cultivation without burning has continued to generate results, including packaged ginger drinks ready for sale.

Red ginger products developed by the Makmur Jaya Women Farmers’ Group through cultivation without burning

The group continues to develop products such as dishwashing liquid, herbal products and foods using materials grown or managed on peatland and in members’ home gardens.

Known as Tuti Kelana, the Chair of the Temiang women’s farmer group works with members to develop environmentally responsible products.

Tuti displaying natural dyes produced by the group

“One of our products is natural textile dye. We use plants that we can grow and find around our homes,” Tuti said during an interview at her house. She explained that the initiative grew out of experience gained through many learning opportunities.

“We are developing a range of environmentally responsible products, from ginger cultivation without burning and coffee gardens to identifying fruit plants in peat swamp forests that have economic value and market demand,” she added.

Yayasan Gambut staff reviewing plans for an FDRS information board

Yayasan Gambut remains committed to supporting productive activities by the women’s farmer group while prioritising environmental conservation.

“We will soon provide capacity-building training in administration and information and communication technology for the group, together with Fire Danger Rating System (FDRS) information boards for the village. Similar support will also be provided in Sepahat and Buruk Bakul,” Mulyadi said.