Tropical peatlands in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, accounting for over 54% of global peatlands, are essential for climate change initiatives. These areas provide valuable co-benefits, such as influencing water quality. Conservation is critical for climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6, focusing on clean water and sanitation, highlights the pivotal role peatlands can play. Addressing knowledge gaps regarding the connection between peatlands and SDG 6 is imperative. A comprehensive understanding, factoring in costs and benefits, can substantially contribute to achieving global environmental goals in a sustainable manner.

This session addresses tropical peatland conservation and water management challenges, emphasizing practical strategies that benefit communities and align with global commitments, including the role of peatlands as a crucial link between nature conservation goals and freshwater challenges in achieving environmental breakthroughs.

Keynote speaker:

Alue Dohong
Vice Minister, Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Republic of Indonesia
“Harmony in Nature: Sustaining Peatlands for Ecosystem Health and Water Resource Balance”

Speakers:

• Muhammad Askary
  Deputy Director for Sources Control of Peatland Ecosystem Degradation, Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Republic of Indonesia
  “Insight on Government Role on Water Management in Peatland Ecosystems: Collaboration, Challenges, and Solutions”
• Swetha Peteru
  Scientist, CIFOR-ICRAF
  “Insights on Science on Finding the Right Balance between Peatland Management and Water Resource Sustainability”
• Yodia Handhi Prambara
  Manager Engineering Development, PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional Refinery Unit II
  “Testimonial from Private Sector Involved in Peatland Management and Water Resource Sustainability Project”
• Sokina Joseph
  Climate Champion
  “Empowering Change and The Role of Climate Champions in Balancing Peatland Management and Water Resource Sustainability”