The global demand for palm oil is leading to widespread tropical deforestation, impacting biodiversity and water quality in watersheds where oil palm plantations are located. A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Massachusetts of Amherst focused on the Kais River watershed in West Papua, an area heavily affected by oil palm plantations. Indigenous communities downstream from the plantations rely on the water for their daily needs, making the deterioration of water quality a significant public health issue for these communities.
Lead author Briantama Asmara and senior author Timothy Randhir used the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT+) to model how the landscape of the Kais watershed has changed due to the conversion of rainforests to oil palm plantations. Their findings revealed that the transition to oil palm plantations has increased precipitation, runoff, and soil moisture, as well as led to a significant decline in water quality. Sedimentation, nitrogen, and phosphorus levels in the water have increased substantially since the plantations were established, posing a threat to downstream Indigenous communities who rely on the rivers and streams for their water supply.
Despite some moderation in the future scenarios, the overall water quality in the watershed will remain compromised, and there will be more runoff compared to before the rainforest was converted to oil palm plantations. The downstream Indigenous communities, who bear the environmental and public health costs of the plantations, are vulnerable to the ongoing degradation of the water quality. The researchers emphasize the need for action from the industry, local governments, and regulators to address the issue and protect the communities affected.
Asmara and Randhir suggest limiting the use of pesticides, especially during flooding periods, conducting continuous water quality monitoring, maintaining riparian buffers, and ensuring that downstream communities have access to up-to-date water quality information. By implementing these measures, both the industry and local governments can mitigate the negative effects of oil palm plantations on watersheds and protect the health and well-being of Indigenous communities downstream.
The study highlights the need for sustainable practices in the palm oil industry to prevent further environmental degradation and protect Indigenous communities who rely on the water from affected watersheds. The researchers’ findings provide valuable information that can inform decision-making and policy development to address the negative impacts of oil palm plantations on water quality and public health. By taking action now, the industry and governments can work together to mitigate these effects and ensure the long-term sustainability of palm oil production.