Goals
What we hope to achieve step by step
Indonesia is one of the biologically most diverse countries in the world with an impressive number of endemic wildlife species and incredibly rich natural resources. Unfortunately, these important resources are heavily over-exploited and wildlife together with their (forest) habitats are disappearing at an alarming rate. In Indonesia levels of environmental awareness are low and education regarding conservation needs and environmental issues is virtually absent.
KWPLH, with its main partner Pro Natura Foundation, work towards increasing conservation and environmental awareness through:
Creating an environmental education facility where all activities embody principles of wise environmental management and conservation;
Providing environmental education through our sun bear enclosure, interactive education displays and programs for schools and other community groups;
Educating the public about the plight of the Sun Bear (Beruang Madu), Balikpapan’s mascot, through a naturalistic enclosure for 7 confiscated sun bears and information about their ecology, behaviour, and threats to their existence;
Highlighting differences between wildlife and pets through our domestic animal education program;
Providing environmentally friendly recreational opportunities to the region’s residents and visitors.
KWPLH primarily receives funding for management and running costs from the local government through the Environmental Department in Balikpapan. Pro Natura Foundation assists with funding and implementation of various aspects of the animal management (health care, food, facility maintenance and new building), as well as development of most education exhibits and facilities at KWPLH.
Various other private and corporate donors have helped with the development of KWPLH and we are very grateful for their support!