A Conservation Health Program in Indonesian Borneo: Lessons Learned

Abstract

This commentary provides a synopsis and evaluation of the Kelay Conservation Health Program (KCHP) and “lessons learned” through the program that may be applicable to other conservation projects. The KCHP is an example of a collaboration of multiple stakeholders (university, non-governmental organization, and local government) that uses medicine in the service of conservation. The program site in Indonesian Borneo (Kalimantan) is noted for its exceptionally high biodiversity value, with a human population whose health and well-being are deeply linked to the rainforest ecosystem. The KCHP has a dual agenda: (1) to improve health for local people, and (2) to allow more effective conservation of critical rainforest habitat. As such, it is a unique example of a conservation agency collaborating with a government health department to improve health and healthcare for people living in a conservation target area. A comprehensive evaluation indicated that the program has had significant positive impacts on both health and conservation in the area it serves, at a total cost of about $62,500 (USD). The KCHP has allowed an international conservation organization to further its orangutan conservation goals while addressing human needs in the conservation area. Environmental Practice 10:20–28 (2008)