KIC Survey: Social Forestry Program Increases Community Income

The Katadata Insight Center (KIC) conducted a survey on the impact of social forestry on business groups. The results show that the social forestry program has a positive impact on the economy, one of which is increased income.

The majority, or 94.8%, of respondents experienced an increase in income after joining the Social Forestry Business Group (KUPS). More than 70% of respondents reported that their family income doubled or even more.

Specifically, 46% of respondents reported a doubling of their income since joining the social forestry program. 25.8% reported a 2-3 fold increase in income.

Even 2.4% of respondents reported an income increase of more than 3 times. However, 25.8% of respondents reported an income increase of less than double.

In addition to the positive economic impact, ecologically, it was also noted that the community experienced improved soil quality and reforestation since the establishment of social forestry status.

For information, the social forestry program is a sustainable forest management system located in state forest areas or customary/adat forests, implemented by local communities/customary law.

The KIC conducted this survey from September 15-24, 2020. The survey targeted 103 social forestry business groups in Indonesia. A total of 210 respondents participated (103 Group Heads/Managers + Members). The method used was telephone interviews with group heads and members (telesurvey).