Beyond Carbon: Biodiversity Outcomes from 10% HCV Set-Asides
While carbon storage dominates global sustainability conversations, biodiversity remains the true metric of ecological health. Critics of monoculture plantation forestry often point to the loss of species diversity in managed stands. To address this, PT. Hasian Bersama Sejahtera mandates a strict 10% High Conservation Value (HCV) set-aside program across all our concessions. Recent independent audits show that these corridors are achieving remarkable conservation outcomes.
The Architecture of HCV Corridors
Simply leaving random patches of forest untouched is not enough to support wildlife. HCV areas must be strategically designed as continuous wildlife corridors. We map our concessions to align set-asides with natural river systems, riparian zones, and ridges. This connects remaining pockets of primary forest and allows animals to migrate safely through our estates without venturing into active logging blocks or communities.
Key Species Monitoring
Using camera traps and canopy surveys, our biodiversity team tracks several indicator species. The 2024 census revealed several positive developments:
- Orangutan (Pongo abelii): Confirmed nesting sites and migratory patterns inside our Sumatran riparian buffer zones, demonstrating that the corridors provide sufficient canopy cover and food sources.
- Sun Bears (Helarctos malayanus): Increased foraging evidence in set-aside zones, indicating healthy soil macroinvertebrate populations.
- Hornbills: Consistent sightings of three distinct species nesting in preserved old-growth emergent trees within our protected pockets.
Coexisting with Industry
Protecting biodiversity does not mean shutting down operations. By integrating buffer zones and training our workers on wildlife encounters, we prove that sustainable commercial forestry and wildlife conservation can coexist. These ecological assets are not just carbon offsets — they are a core pillar of our corporate identity and our commitment to the Indonesian archipelago.
