Indonesia loses more than 2.5 million hectares of forest each year, mainly due to the expansion of palm oil plantations. This deforestation and the burning of peatlands make the country one of the largest greenhouse gas emitters in the world. Tropical peat swamp forests, like those in Borneo, are crucial carbon sinks and habitats for endangered species such as the Bornean orangutan. This project protects peat forest along Borneo’s southern coast and serves as a buffer zone for the Tanjung Puting National Park. In doing so, it prevents large-scale CO2 emissions and biodiversity loss. At the same time, the project invests in local communities through programs focused on education, employment, and healthcare.
This project protects 65,000 hectares of carbon-rich peat forest in Borneo that would otherwise have been converted into palm oil plantations. The area is home to more than 300 bird species, 122 mammals, and the critically endangered Bornean orangutan. Ecosystems are safeguarded through fire towers, guard posts, and reforestation efforts. At the same time, the project strengthens local communities with concrete initiatives such as microfinance, school supplies, a floating clinic, water filters, and improved cookstoves. This approach creates alternative incomes, improves food security, health, and education, and demonstrates that conservation and development can go hand in hand. It is the world’s first project to demonstrably contribute to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
At ORCA, we believe in climate solutions that not only reduce emissions but also deliver tangible benefits for people and nature. This project in Borneo is a powerful example of that approach. Certified under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and awarded the highest recognition for biodiversity and community impact with the CCB Triple Gold status, the project’s reliability is confirmed by independent assessors. It received an ‘AA’ rating from BeZero – one of the highest scores for nature-based projects worldwide. The project offers a transparent and proven solution for those who want to invest in a livable future for both people and planet.
