Exploring communities’ values and uses of intact and degraded forest areas in Central Kalimantan

Abstract

Abstract Tropical peat swamp forest (PSF) values and uses by local communities have been identified as key determinants of sustainable forest management. Understanding these terms has become essential in the conservation strategy decision-making processes, as it integrates the impacted communities concerns of nature. This study aims to enhance understanding of the pressures and motivations for local communities working in the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (BOSF) Mawas Conservation area in Mantangai, Central Kalimantan. To assess attitudes, usage, and livelihood changes within the intact versus degraded forests, we conducted focus groups in four Dayak communities. Semi-structured interviews were used for data triangulation. The values and uses of the forest were explored with participatory and gender-based analysis tools, analysed with qualitative narrative and contents analysis approaches. Using theme analysis, we assessed how the community protects the forest to determine their possible contribution to PSF protection. Here we present the main values (intrinsic, instrumental and relational) and uses of the forest described by the community, and also critical gender differences. We describe their relevance in relation to the development of a conservation strategy for the area. It also serves as a model for assessment of PSF in other areas and raise awareness of the understudied threats facing these forests and potential opportunities for their protection.