The Impact Of Oil Palm Plantations In Wetlands On The Socio-Economic Community Of Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

The expansion of private oil palm plantations, including on wetlands, is significantly increasing yearly. Although the use of wetlands has a negative impact on carbon sequestration, there is a need to recognize the positive influence of oil palm plantations on the socio-economy of surrounding communities. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the impact of oil palm plantations in wetlands on communities. A total of 200 households were included through a field survey and questionnaires were used to obtain data on income, assets, education, and health. The results showed a positive impact of oil palm plantations, such as an increase in education by 103.75% falling in a moderate category. In the health sector, a significant increase was observed in health service facilities by 131.90%, while the total income experienced an increase of 219.87% with a moderate income level classification. From the category of employment type, an increase in income occurred by 18.18%, including asset ownership such as houses, land, and motorized vehicles by 46.45%, 70.43%, and 1,157.58%, respectively. This research recommends that companies collaborate with the government to encourage community businesses and the economy as well as improve access roads between villages and districts.