Tackling Indonesian Peatland Conservation and Sustainable Sago Supply Chains with Satellite Data and Local Execution

Release Overview

Space Tech Accelerator Inc. (STA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, the Ministry of Forestry, and local private enterprises. The agreement focuses on peatland conservation in Indonesia and the establishment of a sustainable regional industry centered around sago (sago palm). This project combines satellite data analysis with local operational capabilities to promote environmental conservation, regional economic development, and the establishment of sustainable supply chains for Japanese companies.

Project Objectives and Scope

This initiative leverages the expertise that STA has cultivated through initiatives such as the JAXA Space Strategic Fund Project. Specifically, joint studies will be conducted focusing on the following three pillars:

1. Peatland Conservation and Water Environment Improvement: Evaluating greenhouse gas emission reduction effects and establishing appropriate management methods.

2. Modernization of the Sago Industry: Improving productivity and developing distribution networks to raise the incomes of local residents and build a procurement model aimed at stable supply to Japan.

3. Satellite-Based Monitoring: Utilizing satellite data, AI, and geospatial information to study systems for continuously tracking the condition and vegetation changes of vast peatlands.

Background of the Initiative

Indonesian peatlands are vital ecosystems that store massive amounts of carbon, but improper drainage and drying have led to environmental risks. Meanwhile, the sago palm is a crop adapted to wet environments, allowing for production while maintaining the hydrological environment of peatlands. STA aims to achieve low-environmental-impact procurement with guaranteed traceability by combining objective monitoring data from space with frontline local information.

Future Outlook

Moving forward, STA will advance baseline surveys and technical verification in the target region of Riau Province. Centered on highly transparent supply chain management utilizing satellites, the initiative aims to visualize environmental value and establish a sustainable agricultural ecosystem.