Near-complete loss of fire-resistant primary tropical forest cover in Sumatra and Kalimantan

Deforestation in Indonesia has increased fire vulnerability, particularly in peatlands, leading to significant carbon emissions. This study uses satellite data (2001-2019) to assess primary forest loss and fragmentation in Sumatra and Kalimantan, revealing that fires rarely penetrate undisturbed primary forests beyond 2 km from the edge, regardless of drought. However, fire-resistant forest now covers only 3% of peatlands and 4.5% of non-peatlands. The authors conclude that urgent protection and regeneration of remaining primary forests and peatland restoration are crucial to mitigate future fire impacts.

Tadas Nikonovas, Allan Spessa, Stefan H. Doerr, Gareth D. Clay, Symon Mezbahuddin