Reforestation for Orangutans: Restoring Borneo's Ecosystem

Borneo reforestation for brands that want to lead on nature

Partner in a large-scale restoration initiative led by Land Life and local NGO experts—regenerating orangutan habitat, strengthening biodiversity, and creating lasting benefits for Indigenous communities.

Land Life’s Borneo Reforestation Project gives purpose-driven companies the opportunity to invest in large-scale tree planting that supports critically threatened orangutan habitat—while delivering powerful biodiversity, conservation, and community outcomes.

Fully community-based and locally managed, the project spans every step of the restoration process: from planning and seedling production to land preparation, planting, and long-term monitoring.

Since 2022, we’ve restored 250 hectares of rainforest, heath forest, and peat swamp forests in Borneo. By August 2025, this will grow to 595 hectares. With an additional 500 hectares available annually for restoration from 2026, our Borneo projects offer a significant opportunity for scaled, brand-aligned impact.

Ready to align your brand with restoration that protects what matters? Share your commitment to people and the planet across your brand.

Invest now in Borneo nature restoration projects

Partner with Land Life and reputable NGOs on-the-ground to restore critical habitats in Borneo—home to some of the planet’s most threatened wildlife.

Pilot Project: Restore 100 Hectares of Degraded Mining Land

Join an exciting new project with Land Life and a globally recognised conservation organisation to plant 111,000 native trees and restore land degraded by historic illegal gold mining.

• Creates jobs for 40 Indigenous families
• Establishes four village nurseries
• Capacity to scale by 200–300 hectares over three years

Long-Term Opportunity: Scale Restoration from 2026

Starting in 2026, Land Life—together with on-the-ground NGO partners Borneo Nature Foundation and Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation—will have up to 500 hectares available for restoration each year across Central Kalimantan.

• Capacity to employ 200+ Indigenous workers
• Jobs include planting, monitoring, and managing village nurseries

Project highlights

• Restore vital habitat for endangered primates: orangutans, red langurs, and gibbons
• Support broader biodiversity: clouded leopards, sun bears, hornbills, and kingfishers
• Revive Kerangas (heath forest) that cannot regenerate without help
• Remove invasive species to promote native regrowth
• Plant climate-resilient native trees to help mitigate climate change
  

Key Strategies in Nature Restoration: How We Approach Our Borneo Projects

Techniques and plant species

Reforestation efforts in Borneo employ various techniques to restore the orangutans' habitat. One common method is the 'Enrichment Planting' technique, which involves planting diverse native tree species to accelerate forest recovery. Species like dipterocarps, which are vital for biodiversity, are often prioritized.

Another approach is Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR), where human intervention helps natural processes by removing invasive species and protecting young plants. This method allows the forest to recover more naturally and sustainably. Combining these techniques ensures a robust and resilient ecosystem for orangutans and other wildlife.

Community Involvement: Engaging Local People in Conservation Efforts

Local communities play a crucial role in the success of reforestation projects. Engaging locals in conservation efforts not only provides them with economic opportunities but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the environment. Community-based programs, such as tree planting initiatives and sustainable farming practices, empower residents to actively contribute to habitat restoration.

Education and awareness campaigns are also vital. Teaching communities about the importance of biodiversity and the threats facing orangutans encourages sustainable practices and long-term commitment to conservation goals.

Monitoring Progress: The Role of Technology in Tracking Reforestation Success

Monitoring the progress of reforestation projects is essential to ensure their effectiveness. Technology plays a significant role in this process. Satellite imagery, drones, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) are used to track changes in forest cover, assess biodiversity, and monitor the health of newly planted areas.

These technological tools provide valuable data that helps conservationists make informed decisions and adjust strategies as needed. Regular monitoring also allows for the early detection of issues such as wildfires or illegal activities, ensuring timely intervention to protect the restored habitats.

Expanding Beyond Borneo: Lessons for Global Conservation

The success of reforestation projects in Borneo offers valuable lessons for global conservation efforts. Strategies and techniques developed here can be adapted and applied to other regions facing similar challenges. The importance of community involvement, the use of technology, and the focus on biodiversity can serve as a blueprint for restoring ecosystems worldwide.

Collaborative efforts between governments, NGOs, and local communities are key to achieving long-term conservation goals. Sharing knowledge and resources across borders will strengthen global initiatives to protect endangered species and restore the planet's vital ecosystems.