Through the creation of a unique 'Nature Restoration' area Samboja Lestari ("Eternal Samboja") BOS has created a sanctuary for orangutans, sun bears and many other protected species.
Since 2001, the BOS Foundation has bought rights for the use of almost 2000 hectares of land in East Kalimantan in order to restore it to its natural state and to provide it with long-term protection. This is a long term project and will be a benefit to the local population, nature conservation and science.
The former species-rich area was turned into a complete wasteland by timber thieves and forest fires, and was covered with a nutrient-poor grass savannah.
Today, over 700 native plant species are grown in our nursery for afforestation. In just a few years a young forest has sprung up, plants growing several times faster in tropical Borneo than in Europe.
With an innovative reforestation concept BOS has transformed Samboja Lestari once again into semi-natural forest. |
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The sustained success of this project can only be ensured by involving a local population which is aware of nature and biodiversity issues.
The principle of the cultivation of fruit and vegetables between growing trees (agroforestry) offers alternatives to poaching and slash and burn agriculture.
Over 200 orangutans and 50 sun bears are already living in Samboja Lestari. |
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Nursery, agriculture and animal stations are now major employers in the region.
The production of sugar from sugar palms is to be the main source of income for local people in the future, while at the same time providing a fire ring around the whole area.
Samboja Lestari is also the new location of the rehabilitation ward Wanariset Samboja.
With the help of a modern veterinary hospital, new large quarantine and socialization cages and a training forest, the orangutans will be fully prepared for living in freedom.
Islands surrounded by ditches offer sick and disabled orang-utans a permanent habitat. |
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Sustainable tourism in our guest house, the Ecolodge, will ensure a source of independent funding.
The project Samboja Lestari is however, mostly dependent on donations.
One square meter rainforest for the future costs only 3 euros!
You can buy rainforest symbolically at:
www.schafft-lebenswald.de |
