Research and Documentation

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 17 views

The Role of the Indonesian Environmental Wahana (Walhi) in the Effort to Trigger the Moratorium Logging Policy on Indonesian Forests

Introduction

Forest is a vital asset for human life, providing oxygen, habitat for flora and fauna, regulating water systems, and many more. Indonesia, with the third largest forest in the world after Brazil and Zaire, has faced a serious threat due to uncontrolled forest exploitation. The country's forest area has shrunk drastically from 162 million hectares in 1950 to 93.92 million hectares in 2005, causing adverse effects such as flash floods. In response to this condition, the Indonesian Environmental Forum (Walhi), a non-governmental organization that cares about the environment, has taken the initiative to find solutions.

The Problem of Deforestation in Indonesia

Deforestation in Indonesia is a critical issue that has been ongoing for decades. The excessive exploitation of forests without adequate control and supervision has led to a significant loss of forest function, causing flash floods, landslides, and loss of biodiversity. The Indonesian government has implemented various policies to address deforestation, but the problem persists. The loss of forest function has also affected the livelihoods of indigenous communities and small-scale farmers who rely on forests for their income and food.

The Moratorium Logging Policy

Walhi has designed a policy concept called Moratorium Logging or Pause of Logging, which is a temporary termination of logging and forest conversion activities. The moratorium logging policy aims to provide a temporary reprieve from the exploitation of forests, allowing for the rehabilitation of damaged forests and the development of a sustainable forest management system. Walhi believes that the moratorium logging policy can be an effective solution to overcome the problem of deforestation in Indonesia.

Case Study of North Walhi-Sumatera

Walhi-North Sumatra is an active branch of Walhi in campaigning for the moratorium logging policy. They have conducted various activities, including:

Research and Documentation

Walhi-North Sumatra has conducted research and documentation of forest destruction cases and violations of the law in the forestry sector in North Sumatra. This research has provided valuable insights into the causes and consequences of deforestation in the region, highlighting the need for a moratorium logging policy.

Advocacy and Campaign

Walhi-North Sumatra has advocated to the government and companies related to the application of the moratorium logging policy. They have also conducted campaigns to increase public awareness about the importance of protecting the forest. These campaigns have been successful in engaging local communities and raising awareness about the need for sustainable forest management.

Community Assistance

Walhi