As part of our carbon offsetting programme with Gray Dawes Travel, we support the Katingan Peatland Restoration and Conservation Project in Indonesia, one of the world’s largest forest-based climate initiatives.
Carbon offsetting enables us to balance our carbon footprint by investing in projects that prevent emissions or absorb CO₂. It plays an important role in addressing emissions that are difficult to eliminate entirely, supporting a more balanced and responsible approach to climate action.
The Katingan project protects and restores more than 140,000 hectares of tropical peatland, one of the most effective natural carbon sinks on Earth. By preventing the conversion of this land into industrial plantations, the project avoids the release of significant volumes of stored carbon and methane each year. It is estimated to prevent around 7.4 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, contributing meaningfully to global climate mitigation efforts.
Beyond carbon, the project plays a vital role in protecting biodiversity. The Katingan region is home to over 390 species, including critically endangered wildlife such as the Bornean orangutan, Sunda pangolin and proboscis monkey. Restoration activities including reforestation, fire prevention and water management, help preserve these habitats and support long-term ecosystem health.
The programme also delivers benefits for local communities, working across 34 villages to support sustainable livelihoods. By encouraging alternative income sources such as agroforestry, eco-tourism, sustainable fisheries and non-timber forest products like rattan and honey, the project helps reduce reliance on environmentally damaging practices. Supported by training, micro-finance and community-led planning, it builds long-term economic resilience while protecting the surrounding environment.
By linking carbon offsetting with conservation and community development, this approach ensures climate action is both practical and inclusive, reducing emissions while supporting ecosystems and creating sustainable opportunities for the people who depend on them.