Berau Mangrove and Forest Conservation Project

Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, faces significant environmental threats from shrimp pond farming and brackish water aquaculture. In 2019, approximately 13% (11,237 ha) of the mangrove forests were converted to shrimp ponds, contributing to ecosystem degradation. Further expansion of shrimp ponds and low productivity levels are pushing for more land conversion, which could lead to the loss of critical habitats for biodiversity, including endangered species such as the Proboscis Monkey (Nasalis larvatus) and Grey Imperial-Pigeon (Ducula pickeringii). Additionally, oil and gas exploration in the region poses further risks to the forests and wetlands, exacerbating the environmental challenges

Gaia Indonesia conducted a Preliminary Feasibility Study (Pre-FS) to assess the potential for a carbon credit project in the Berau mangrove and forest ecosystems. Our approach, following the CCB-VCS standard, included:

• A detailed analysis of the ecosystem types in Berau, including mangrove forests, dryland forests, and swamp forests.
• Identification of the high conservation value species and biodiversity in the region, highlighting the area’s ecological significance.
• Estimation of emissions reductions from avoiding unplanned deforestation, planned degradation, and enhancing carbon sequestration through afforestation, reforestation, and wetlands restoration activities (ARR and RWE).
• Development of strategies for forest rehabilitation, sustainable forest management, and community engagement to enhance local livelihoods while reducing pressure on the environment.