Indonesia’s rainforests are world-renowned for their social and ecological value. They comprise some of the most biodiverse forests on the planet – providing habitat for endangered orangutans, Sumatran tigers, Sumatran elephants, and countless other species. Indonesia’s rainforests are also home to millions of Indigenous people whose cultures and livelihoods are directly dependent on natural forests.
What is less well known about these forests is that they are also essential to maintaining climate stability. Indonesia’s rainforests are disappearing at an alarming rate as unscrupulous companies clear and convert them to monoculture plantations to provide cheap paper and other commodities, such as palm oil, to supply insatiable international markets. This destruction is emitting massive amounts of greenhouse gasses critical for preventing climate change.
Rainforest Action Network’s “Don’t Bag Indonesia’s Rainforests” Campaign is shining a spotlight on the companies that are contributing to this tragic pattern of destruction. We are mobilizing the power of public opinion and private sector purchasing power, educating and changing business leaders, and holding the companies linked to forest destruction accountable by urging them to protect our forests, climate, and future.
