Local Governance of Peatland Restoration in Riau, Indonesia: A Transdisciplinary Analysis

This open-access book discusses peatland conservation and restoration in Indonesia, focusing on local governance perspectives in Riau, the most peat-destructed province. It combines established fieldwork methodologies with contemporary technology and explores the potential of long-distance research with rural communities through online facilitation. The book emphasizes the importance of locally inclusive approaches and the use of accessible technologies to sustainably govern peatland, a globally important resource.

Format: Hardback
Length: 333 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive open-access book is part of a series of four volumes that delve into the realm of peatland conservation and restoration in Indonesia. With a specific focus on local governance, particularly from regional and local perspectives in Riau, the most peat-destructed province in Indonesia, the book addresses a critical gap in the existing literature by incorporating social science and humanities perspectives. Written by authors from diverse disciplines and backgrounds, including scholars and NGO activists, the approaches to the topic are diverse and unique, encompassing a range of methods such as analysis of GPS logs, social media, geospatial assessments, online interviews conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, and conventional questionnaires and surveys of community members.

The chapters in this book cover an interdisciplinary understanding of peatland destruction, providing valuable insights into environmental governance. While presenting a combination of established fieldwork methodologies and contemporary technology, including drones and geospatial information, the book also explores the potential of long-distance research with rural communities through online facilitation, which was necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic but may have long-term implications.

By delving into the complexities surrounding peatland conservation and restoration, readers will gain a comprehensive grasp of the challenges and opportunities involved. The book emphasizes the significance of locally inclusive approaches that utilize contemporary but accessible technologies to sustainably govern the globally important resource of peatland. Such an approach holds immense value for other environmentally fragile but critical regions and offers valuable insights for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In particular, the book aligns with SDG 1, which aims to eradicate poverty, by promoting sustainable livelihoods and economic growth in peatland-dependent communities. SDG 5, which focuses on gender equality, is also addressed, as the book recognizes the importance of involving women and marginalized groups in peatland conservation and restoration efforts. SDG 13, which addresses climate action, is closely linked to peatland conservation, as peatlands play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by storing carbon. SDG 15, which aims to protect life on land, is particularly relevant, as peatlands are home to diverse ecosystems and support numerous species.

Overall, this book serves as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in peatland conservation and restoration in Indonesia and beyond. By highlighting the importance of local governance, interdisciplinary approaches, and the integration of contemporary technology, it provides a roadmap for sustainable peatland management and contributes to the achievement of the SDGs.

Weight: 688g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819909018
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023