The Green Peatland Economy (GPE) program in Indonesia promotes sustainable economic development by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing ecosystem and community resilience. Supported by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry and BRGM, the program focuses on the restoration and sustainable management of peatlands across five Peat Hydrological Units (PHUs) in Central Kalimantan and Riau. These PHUs are divided into protection and cultivation zones, with strict land-use regulations to preserve hydrological functions.

Key GPE activities include the 3Rs strategy (Rewetting, Revegetation, and Revitalization) for peatland restoration. Economically valuable plants, such as sago, jelutung, and pineapple, are cultivated through paludiculture, supporting local livelihoods while maintaining peatland water levels. The program also promotes ecotourism initiatives, including eco-edutourism, river tours, and peat water recreation, to encourage conservation and environmental education.

Challenges for GPE include managing forest and land fires, raising public awareness, and improving market access for paludiculture products. The program addresses these through enhanced regulations, zero-burning land-clearing techniques, and integrated eco-edutourism plans.

Active stakeholder involvement—including local governments, NGOs, universities, the private sector, and communities—is essential for the program’s success. Coordinated efforts in production, processing, marketing, and promotion are key to achieving sustainable peatland management and economic empowerment.