When Sumatra floods meet palm oil and biofuel ambitions

environmental damage contributed to the disasters. An aerial photograph showing vast palm oil plantations submerged by floodwaters also drew widespread attention. In response to the catastrophe, Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment sealed and installed monitoring notices at the operational area of a palm oil plantation and mill owned by PT Tri Bahtera Srikandi (PT TBS) in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra. Minister of Environment Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said the measure was intended to temporarily halt activities that could potentially worsen hydrological conditions in the area. He said the decision was taken to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, safeguard public safety, and support ecosystem restoration. According to the minister, the move reflects the government’s recognition that land clearing for oil palm plantations, particularly when carried out in violation of regulations, can damage landscapes and pose serious risks to surrounding communities. At the same time, ...