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To conserve the priority populations of orangutans identified as
crucial for the species’ survival, it is critical to tackle the loss of
forest cover within their range. Indonesian forests are being de-
stroyed or degraded by
(1)
illegal logging for timber, pulp, paper
and plywood;
(2)
conversion to industrial timber and crop planta-
tions, such as oil palm;
(3)
clearing for small-scale shifting cultiva-
tion; and
(4)
fire (Schroeder-Wildberg and Carius 2003). The trade
in wood products and palm oil is largely conducted by multina-
tional networks based in Asia, Europe and North America.
ORANGUTAN UPDATE:
SITUATION DETERIORATING