(Jakarta, Indonesia / Sacramento, CA - September 25) — A new spatial analysis released today by Auriga Nusantara and Earth Insight – Red Alert: Nickel Mining Threats to Raja Ampat – provides stark evidence of nickel mining's impacts and future threats to Indonesia’s Raja Ampat islands, which form part of the Coral Triangle, an area of Southeast Asian seas containing the richest marine biodiversity on earth.

The new report, along with photos from recent field investigations, expose how over 22,000 hectares (54,000+ acres) of nickel mining concessions continue to threaten the UNESCO Global Geopark, endangering 2,470 hectares (6,000+ acres) of coral reefs, 7,200 hectares (17,500+ acres) of forest cover, and the livelihoods of over 64,000 Indigenous and local community members across the 3.66-million hectare (over 9 million acre) archipelago. Downloadable maps and photos from the report can be found here.

Raja Ampat, known as the "Crown Jewel of Marine Biodiversity," lies within the Coral Triangle, the habitat of 75% of the world's shallow-water coral species, more than 1,600 fish species, and the largest reef manta ray population. The region is also home to Indigenous Papuan and other communities who depend on its pristine waters and forests for their cultural identity, food security, and economic survival.

After public outcry, this year Indonesia revoked four nickel permits, but there is still no evidence that any permits were actually revoked or that any environmental restoration is being planned on the impacted islands. PT Gag Nikel, which operates on Gag Island (which the government claims its activities do not impact the Geopark), resumed operations on September 3, 2025.

Nickel mining in Raja Ampat is an illustrative case of the threats faced by more than 280 small islands across the country, which are burdened by 380 mining permits. The report's key findings reveal the scale of ongoing threats:

• Massive scale of impact: Over 22,000 hectares of nickel mining concessions within Raja Ampat, with 92% (7,200 hectares) of forest cover under mining concessions and 36% (2,400 hectares) of coral reefs at high risk
• Accelerated mining expansion: Land used for mining in Raja Ampat expanded three times faster from 2020 to 2024 compared to the previous five years
• Critical species impacts: Manta rays (including the largest type in the world, Mobula birostris), five species of protected turtles (including critically endangered hawksbill sea turtles) and other marine life face threats from nickel sedimentation and noise pollution
• Dual marginalization: Over 64,000 Indigenous and local community members are excluded from permit discussions but suffer environmental consequences
• Livelihood destruction: Artisanal fishers report that noise and vibrations from mining have scared away fish and dolphins
• Uncertain permit status: While the Indonesian government announced revocation of four permits, there's no evidence that permits were actually revoked or environmental restoration planned
• Legal loopholes: Companies have filed lawsuits to regain permits, and without permanent "no-go zone" protections, permits could be reinstated
• Tourism threat: Continued mining could jeopardize Raja Ampat's UNESCO Geopark designation, which attracted over 19,000 tourists in 2023

"Our research shows that nickel mining in Raja Ampat creates a domino effect of destruction - from direct forest clearing to sediment runoff that suffocates coral reefs to the displacement of marine species that local communities depend upon," said Timer Manurung, Director at Auriga Nusantara. "The Indonesian government must recognize that short-term mining profits pale in comparison to the long-term value of intact ecosystems that support both biodiversity and tourism economies. We call for the immediate and permanent cancellation of all remaining mining concessions in Raja Ampat."

The assessment comes as Indonesia positions itself as the "OPEC of nickel" to meet growing global demand for electric vehicle batteries. However, the report demonstrates how nickel extraction in ecologically sensitive areas like Raja Ampat creates cascading environmental damage that extends far beyond mining sites themselves.

"Raja Ampat represents one of the planet's most irreplaceable marine ecosystems, yet our analysis shows it remains significantly threatened from the nickel mining industry that poses fundamental danger to its coral reefs, marine life, and Indigenous communities," said Tiffany Hsu, Spatial Analyst at Earth Insight. "While the government's recent permit revocations were a positive step, the remaining concessions and ongoing legal challenges by mining companies mean this global treasure is far from safe. Complete protection requires the permanent removal of all mining concessions from the archipelago."

The report documents severe environmental impacts already occurring across multiple islands. On Kawei Island, artisanal fishers report that mining noise and vibrations are driving away fish critical to local food security. Manuran Island experiences pollution plumes during high tide. The report warns that these impacts represent only the beginning of what could happen if mining expansion continues.

Beyond immediate environmental damage, the analysis reveals how nickel mining in Raja Ampat constitutes "dual marginalization" of small island communities - meaning they are excluded from permit decision-making processes but bear the full burden of environmental consequences. As customary forests disappear, fishing grounds turn red, and shores darken with nickel dust, ancient biocultural practices are at risk of extinction.

The report calls on the Indonesian government to permanently cancel all mining concessions in Raja Ampat, establish enforceable "no-go zone" protections for the entire archipelago, and prioritize sustainable alternatives that protect both biodiversity and community livelihoods while supporting Indonesia's commitment to marine conservation leadership.

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About Auriga Nusantara

Auriga Nusantara is an Indonesian environmental organization dedicated to protecting the country's biodiversity, forests, marine ecosystem, and communities through research, advocacy, and policy engagement. The organization works to raise critical voices against destructive forestry, oil palm, marine ecosystem, and mining practices while promoting sustainable alternatives that safeguard Indonesia's natural heritage and the rights of local communities.

About Earth Insight

Earth Insight builds critical transparency tools and momentum for restricting fossil fuel, mining, and other industrial expansion threats to key ecosystems and Indigenous and local communities. Our research, communications, and engagement work are central to supporting policy interventions that key political and financial actors can make to protect critical ecosystems as a vital step towards addressing both the biodiversity and climate crises.