Mining company opens Sulawesi biodiversity conservation zone

Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Hengjaya Mineralindo has opened a High Conservation Value Area (HCVA) in Morowali District, Central Sulawesi, as part of efforts to support biodiversity conservation within and around its mining operations.

"The launch of a conservation area is a commitment to future generations. Through BIO-SPARK and the establishment of this High Conservation Value Area, we are demonstrating that biodiversity conservation is not separate from our business; it is a fundamental part of how we operate," Chief Operating Officer of Nickel Industries Tony Green said in a statement received in Jakarta, Wednesday.

He said that responsible mining must contribute to protecting natural ecosystems while supporting economic growth and community development.

Developed through comprehensive biodiversity assessments and baseline studies, the conservation area spans approximately 196.78 hectares and includes primary forest ecosystems that provide habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endemic and protected species such as the Sulawesi hornbill, anoa, and black macaque.

The initiative has received positive support from the Central Sulawesi Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) and aligns with Indonesia's national biodiversity conservation agenda, including efforts to strengthen habitat protection and wildlife conservation both within and outside designated conservation areas.

Green said the establishment of the conservation area reflects the company's efforts to integrate biodiversity protection into its operational activities.

Meanwhile, Operation Manager of Hengjaya Mineralindo Haldane J Morris emphasized the operational importance of integrating conservation into everyday decision-making.

From an operational perspective, Morris said that the establishment of this High Conservation Value Area provides a clear framework for how environmental protection is embedded into our activities.

"Biodiversity considerations are incorporated into planning, monitoring, and risk management processes across the site. Our objective is to ensure that operational excellence and environmental stewardship progress together," Morris said.

Beyond its conservation function, the HCVA is expected to serve as a platform for scientific research, biodiversity monitoring, environmental education, native plant propagation, and collaborative conservation initiatives involving government institutions, universities, local communities, and other stakeholders.

“Biodiversity conservation is a shared responsibility. This High Conservation Value Area reflects the strong collaboration between government, communities, academia, and our business partners to create lasting environmental value,” Morris said.

Looking ahead, the company plans to manage the area using a Development by Design (DbD) approach, which applies the mitigation hierarchy principle of avoiding, minimizing, restoring, and offsetting environmental impacts.

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Reporter: Azis Kurmala

Editor: Arie Novarina

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