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Ann Nyambura

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WWF

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WWF's Innovative Approach to Sustainable Rubber and Rainforest Conservation

In the heart of Sumatra, Indonesia, WWF and PT ABT are leading a groundbreaking initiative to preserve one of the region's last major rainforests, Thirty Hills. This forest is a critical sanctuary for biodiversity, surrounded by oil palm plantations and deforested land. PT ABT has committed to managing approximately 100,000 acres of this forest as an ecosystem restoration concession. Their innovative model shifts the focus from profit-driven deforestation to a sustainable approach that values forest conservation and community partnerships.
At the core of PT ABT's strategy is the sustainable production of rubber, a key economic driver in the region. Sumatra, located in Jambi Province, is a major hub for global rubber production, particularly for the automotive industry, which consumes over 75% of the world's natural rubber. With rising demand for eco-friendly products, there is a growing opportunity to develop a sustainable rubber market. PT ABT is leveraging this demand by integrating rubber production into their conservation efforts, turning a critical environmental issue into an economic opportunity.
One of the main components of this plan involves the cultivation of "jungle rubber" within the Thirty Hills concession. Unlike traditional monoculture plantations, jungle rubber integrates rubber trees into the forest's existing biodiversity. This method not only helps to rehabilitate deforested areas but also supports local communities. Many local families have traditionally relied on rubber farming, and by improving the sustainability and profitability of this practice, PT ABT aims to enhance local livelihoods while preserving the forest.
Despite the promising approach, there are challenges to overcome. Establishing a successful sustainable rubber business involves navigating issues related to supply, quality, and community engagement. For instance, weather conditions and tree diseases can affect rubber supply, while the need for large volumes of trade requires building slow-moving partnerships with external communities. Additionally, many local farmers currently receive low prices for their rubber, which could tempt them to switch to more lucrative but ecologically harmful alternatives like palm oil.
To address these challenges, PT ABT and WWF are focusing on improving the quality of the rubber produced and securing better prices for farmers through formal partnerships. This includes helping local farmers achieve Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certification, which will allow them to meet international sustainability standards and command higher prices for their products. Strengthening these partnerships and boosting the quality of rubber is essential for ensuring both economic and environmental success.
The model being developed in Thirty Hills has the potential to set a precedent for other tropical regions facing deforestation. By demonstrating that conservation and sustainable economic practices can go hand-in-hand, WWF and PT ABT are paving the way for a scalable solution to one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. If successful, this innovative approach could offer valuable lessons for conservation efforts worldwide, benefiting both people and nature.

https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/tapping-into-success


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