Indonesia retiree rewilds world’s largest volcano lake as church demands plantation closures

Mongabay
Mongabay
2M ago
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Wilmar Eliaser Simandjorang, a retired civil servant, is leading rewilding efforts at Lake Toba amid calls from the Batak church to close a major plantation. This matters as pollution and deforestation threaten the lake's ecological health and cultural significance.
Indonesia retiree rewilds world’s largest volcano lake as church demands plantation closures
A What happened
Wilmar Eliaser Simandjorang, the first district leader of Samosir, has committed his retirement to rewilding Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake globally, which faces severe ecological threats. After declining a government environmental award in 2013 due to perceived inadequacies in land management, he has focused on grassroots initiatives to restore the lake's health. Recent studies indicate alarming pollution levels, prompting the Batak Protestant Christian Church to call for the closure of PT Toba Pulp Lestari, a major plantation linked to environmental crises. Simandjorang's advocacy highlights the urgent need for collective action to protect this culturally significant and ecologically vital landscape.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Environmental Advocacy: Wilmar's grassroots efforts aim to restore Lake Toba's ecosystem.

  • 2

    Community Involvement: Local residents are engaged in reforestation and sustainable practices.

  • 3

    Church's Role: The Batak church is advocating for environmental justice.

  • 4

    Pollution Crisis: Studies reveal critical pollution levels threatening Lake Toba.

Takeaways

Wilmar Simandjorang's dedication to rewilding Lake Toba underscores the importance of community-led environmental initiatives in combating ecological degradation. The support from local organizations and the church highlights a growing awareness of the need for sustainable practices to protect this vital ecosystem.

Topics

Culture & Society Society Climate & Environment Conservation