Paper short abstract:

Natural resource management policy should be designed to accommodate the long term need of human beings and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Paper long abstract:

Indonesia as an archipelago shows the geographical conditions of a region dominated by the ocean and hence is highly vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels. On the other side a geography with the longest coastline in the world also is a blessing for this country. Indonesia is a mega-biodiversity country and has the world's third largest forest area with a wealth of flora and fauna. Current concerns at the loss of tropical forests arise from increased public awareness of the importance of forest biodiversity as a 'natural warehouse.' A variety of environmental case studies related to biodiversity indicate we have not been able to preserve this biodiversity. Exploitation of biodiversity, wildlife poaching and trade, illegal logging and forest conversion into residential, farming, and mining areas are some of the factors that threaten biodiversity. This situation reminds us of the important need for the people of Indonesia to sustain the continuity of development through the preservation of biodiversity on land and at sea. Forests provide food sources and livelihoods, as well as a beauty that should be enjoyed by the next generation. The negative impacts of development can be avoided if planning and management are optimized to produce a positive outcome for biodiversity. Effort, collaboration and cooperation between governments, local communities and companies are the key elements that must always be adjusted to produce optimum diversity.