PT Gag Nikel has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the environment around its mining location through innovative modern technology. The company, which operates on Pulau Gag, Waigeo Barat District, Raja Ampat Islands, ensures that mining activities are carried out with a focus on sustainability principles and the well-being of the local community.

This commitment was shared by Rudy S. Sumual, Officer Manager of Sorong PT Gag Nikel, during a Media Gathering event held in Kuta, Bali, on Saturday (February 1, 2025). In his presentation, Rudy explained that PT Gag Nikel operates in accordance with government regulations and continues to innovate in implementing environmentally friendly technology.

Regulations and Environmental Compliance

PT Gag Nikel operates in full compliance with various government regulations, including the Environmental Impact Assessment (AMDAL) approved through the Decree of the Minister of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia No. 02.15.05 Year 2014 and SK.1244/MENLHK/SETJEN/PLA.4/12/2022. Additionally, the company holds a Forest Area Use Permit (Izin Pinjam Pakai Kawasan Hutan), obtained through the Decree of the Head of BKPM on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Forestry No. 19/1/IPPKH/PMA/2015, as well as subsequent regulations valid until 2025.

Concrete Steps in Environmental Conservation

As part of its environmental responsibility, PT Gag Nikel has implemented several conservation programs, including:

1. Land Reclamation and Rehabilitation: By December 2024, PT Gag Nikel had successfully reclaimed 131.42 hectares of land, planting over 350,000 trees, including 70,000 endemic trees. Additionally, 231.1 hectares of watershed rehabilitation (DAS) has been achieved out of the total target of 666.6 hectares.
2. Mangrove and Sago Conservation: Since 2022, the company has planted 2,480 mangrove trees and 482 sago trees to preserve coastal ecosystems.
3. Erosion and Sedimentation Control: PT Gag Nikel has used techniques such as cocomesh and hydroseeding to control erosion and sedimentation, while also involving local communities in post-mining land management.
4. Coral Reef Transplantation: In collaboration with the Politeknik Kelautan dan Perikanan Sorong, PT Gag Nikel has rehabilitated 300 m² of coral reefs, with regular monitoring to ensure the health of the reef.
5. Biodiversity Protection: This program includes the release of protected bird species and the planting of 5,000 fruit trees to help maintain natural ecosystems.
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Conservation of Hawksbill Turtles (Penyu Sisik)

PT Gag Nikel is actively involved in the protection of the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), a species classified as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List. The Gag Island serves as one of the nesting sites for this species. The company has initiated several conservation measures to protect hawksbill turtles, including:

1. Creation of Semi-Natural Hatcheries
2. Nesting Site Patrols
3. Community Education and Awareness

This program is expected to make Gag Island an educational tourism destination, similar to the shark conservation at Wayak Geosite, which can provide economic benefits for the local community.

Local Community Empowerment at PT Gag Nikel

In addition to environmental conservation, PT Gag Nikel is also deeply committed to the empowerment of local communities. The company actively involves local residents in various aspects of its mining operations, particularly in reclamation efforts and the management of natural resources. This engagement provides both economic benefits and capacity-building opportunities for the communities on Gag Island and surrounding areas.

By integrating modern technology and continuous innovation, PT Gag Nikel demonstrates that the mining industry can operate in harmony with environmental preservation and community empowerment. The company’s initiatives are designed to ensure that local people are not only part of the economic development but also empowered with new skills and opportunities for long-term sustainability.