Mitigation of peatland fires and haze disaster through livelihood revitalization: a case study in Pelalawan Riau

Abstract

Mitigation of peatland fires and haze Disaster is done by restoration, namely rewetting, revegetation and revitalization of community livelihood. This study is conducted in Riau province which has the largest Peatland Hydrological Unit (PHU) area in Indonesia, with case studies in Pelalawan district. This study aims to develop the alternative livelihood to support peatland restoration through rewetting program by applying action research. We also examine the community participation of this livelihood revitalization program. The Merbau and Krumutan district are selected to represent of mainland malay and coastal malay community respectively. We stimulate the community to diversify economic activities by developing potential local processed food industry such as cassava, pineapple, and peatland fish. The results show that the participation of mainland Malay community is met at point 3.3, higher than that of coastal Malay community at 3.2. It is indicated that community participation and involvement of mainland Malay community in empowerment activities are highly rated and open for new activities (consultative), while in coastal Malay community is still growing. We need to encourage them toward consultative participation through modification of individualistic and instructive participation. It is highly possible that mitigation of peatland fires and haze disaster can be attempted through livelihood revitalization by strengthening empowerment, participation and market certainty.