KnE Social Sciences

Published date: Oct 29 2025

Journal Title: KnE Social Sciences

Issue title: The 8th Legal International Conference and Studies (LICS 2025): Integrating Climate Change and Biodiversity into National & International Legislation—Harmonizing Knowledge

Pages: 241 - 248

DOI: 10.18502/kss.v10i26.20001

Amir Ariefamir78arief@gmail.comDoctoral of Law Program, Universitas Islam Sultan Agung (UNISSULA), Semarang

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.

Keywords: community, ecosystem, degradation, participation

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