environment
Indonesia takes action against mining firms after floods devastate population of world’s rarest ape
Conservationists hail the ‘desperately needed’ measures and urge greater protection after up to 11% of endangered Tapanuli orangutans wiped out
TL;DR
- Floods and landslides in November 2024 severely impacted Indonesia's Batang Toru ecosystem, killing up to 11% of the Tapanuli orangutan population.
- Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced measures to hold companies accountable for the ecological catastrophe.
- The government revoked permits for 28 companies, including PT Agincourt Resources (Martabe goldmine) and PT North Sumatera Hydro Energy.
- The environment ministry sued six companies for alleged links to environmental damages, seeking 4.8tn rupiah.
- Scientists noted that while the hydro dam and goldmine have impacted orangutan habitat, the direct link between these companies and the recent landslides is tentative, with extreme rainfall also cited as a cause.
- Environmental advocates view the government's actions as a win for the Tapanuli orangutan and are pushing for permanent protection and restoration of the ecosystem.