Rainforest Loss in Sumatra: Current Estimates

According to the Rainforest Action Network (2021 data), Sumatra has lost approximately 55.5% of its original forest cover.

Primary drivers include:

• Palm oil and pulpwood plantation expansion
• Illegal logging
• Mining and infrastructure development
• Smallholder agriculture

Remaining forests are highly fragmented, threatening critically endangered species like the Sumatran orangutan, tiger, elephant, and rhino. Conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining blocks (e.g., Leuser Ecosystem) and restoring corridors.