Biodiversity Action Plan for Graho Nyabu Geothermal Project
Executive Summary
Anwar Muhammad Foundation (AMF) developed a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for the Graho Nyabu Geothermal Project located in Merangin and Kerinci Regencies, Jambi, within the Kerinci Seblat National Park (TNKS) area.
This region serves as a critical habitat for various protected species such as Sumatran tigers, clouded leopards, and giant flying squirrels. The BAP prepared by AMF aims to ensure there is no net loss to natural habitats, and to support biodiversity conservation through species protection, collaboration with TNKS management, and community partnerships.
Background
PT EDC Indonesia (PT EDCI), a subsidiary of Energy Development Corporation, focuses on the development of geothermal energy for power generation in Indonesia, particularly in Jambi Province. The project is located within Kerinci Seblat National Park (TNKS), the largest national park in Sumatra, known for its ecological value and its role as a key habitat for protected species such as the Sumatran tiger. The BAP was designed to ensure biodiversity conservation and compliance with international standards, referring to the IFC Performance Standards.
Client
PT Energy Development Corporation Indonesia
Year
2024/Indonesia
Location
Kabupaten Merangin & Kabupaten Kerinci, Jambi
Objectives of the Intervention
- Provide an overview of biodiversity richness and diversity within the Project Area.
- Conduct an assessment of critical habitats in the Project Area.
- Identify potential biodiversity impacts from project activities.
- Define conservation priorities and actions for biodiversity.
- Engage relevant stakeholders in the preparation and implementation of the BAP.
- Ensure no net loss and achieve net gain for critical habitats.
Implementation
- Develop the baseline, methodology, and collect biodiversity data.
- Conduct Critical Habitat Assessment.
- Conduct Biodiversity Impact Assessment.
- Prepare the Biodiversity Action Plan document
Main Outputs and Deliverables
1. Biodiversity Condition
- Data collection was carried out through literature studies and field studies.
- Identified >500 plant species, >20 bird species, >5 mammal species, 10 reptile and amphibian species, and 2 freshwater biota species.
2. Critical Habitat Assessment
- The assessment focused on the project’s location within TNKS, a critical habitat that supports endangered species and globally significant ecosystems. This evaluation helped determine key biodiversity areas, ecosystem uniqueness, evolutionary processes, and areas of high global conservation value.
3. Biodiversity Impact Assessment
- Disturbance to natural habitats during the construction phase of exploration activities may affect both the habitats and the species that occupy them. Mitigation measures were developed to be implemented in conjunction with PT EDCI’s existing environmental management plan. By applying these mitigation actions to affected habitats, the project indirectly helps to minimise impacts and maintain the integrity of biodiversity at the species level within the Project Area.
- Disturbance to natural habitats during the operational phase of exploration activities may also cause impacts on habitats and resident species. Although impacts on habitats were addressed during the construction phase, continued implementation of mitigation and management measures remains necessary throughout the operational phase.
4. Preparation of the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)
Protection and Monitoring of Critical Habitats and Species
Focuses on protecting critical habitats and species near the project site through careful land management, flora and fauna conservation, poaching prevention, invasive species control, and pollution management. Worker education and post-construction habitat restoration are also included.
Collaboration with TNKS (Kerinci Seblat National Park)
Focuses on strengthening collaboration and patrol coordination with TNKS to prevent poaching and illegal logging, and to enhance biodiversity protection efforts within the park.
Stakeholder Engagement
Emphasises the establishment of communication forums with stakeholders to share project updates, identify opportunities for collaboration, and strengthen biodiversity awareness and coordination among relevant parties.
Community Partnership
Encourages awareness-raising and capacity-building initiatives for local communities to prevent illegal activities and promote community-based conservation efforts through participatory patrols and local biodiversity protection programmes.
Challenges Encountered
- Administrative constraints that caused delays in activity implementation and scheduling.
- Project execution affected by extreme weather conditions.
- Limited communication access that impacted field survey coordination.
Lessons Learned
- Strengthening of administrative and permitting processes.
- Improved mitigation of unforeseen factors.
- Establishment of robust safety, communication, and emergency response protocols.
Documentation
Anwar Muhammad Foundation
Jl. O Kavling No. 12, RT. 10 RW. 14, Kebon Baru, Tebet, Jakarta Selatan – Indonesia 12830