Mongabay · Climate & nature

Indonesian Rubber Growers Use Traditional Methods Amidst Wildfire Crisis

Indonesia faces its worst wildfires in years, worsened by El Niño. Rubber growers in South Sumatra are using traditional methods to fight fires threatening their livelihoods.

Wildfires, intensified by El Niño, are spreading across Sumatra and Borneo. Rubber growers report fires began after the oil palm industry started operating in peatlands. Rubber trees are more vulnerable to fire than oil palms.

Sumanti described battling a wildfire near her family's rubber trees, using water canisters and a sprayer. This highlights the lack of external firefighting resources.

The crisis impacts families dependent on latex. Fires have caused economic damage, with one farmer losing a 2-hectare plantation. Latex production has also plummeted due to drought.

While farmers traditionally used fire for land clearing, rubber tappers use controlled burns cautiously after the dry season. The oil palm industry's expansion is linked to increased wildfires.

In traditional Musi Indigenous territories with rubber holdings, no burned areas were found. Residents worry about fires and potential water crises as sources dry up.

The Tempirai community uses controlled burns for crop zones, with strict monitoring and firebreaks. This practice is rooted in centuries-old knowledge of water and fire management.

Community members pool resources for equipment like water pumps, as firefighters are scarce. This highlights local efforts to manage the wildfire threat.

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