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Beyond Tree Planting: Faculty of Forestry USU Initiative Opens New Economic Opportunities

Published At

01 April 2026

Published By

Threesna Sharfina

Beyond Tree Planting: Faculty of Forestry USU Initiative Opens New Economic Opportunities
Thumbnail Beyond Tree Planting: Faculty of Forestry USU Initiative Opens New Economic Opportunities
The 43rd Hari Bakti Rimbawan commemoration at the Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) Bekala highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration in environmental conservation while promoting innovation in conservation-based economic opportunities.

HUMAS FAHUTAN — The tree-planting activity held during the 43rd Hari Bakti Rimbawan at the Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) Bekala on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, was more than just a ceremonial event. It also offered a new perspective on how the forestry sector can contribute to conservation-based economic opportunities.
 

The activity involved the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) of North Sumatra, the Provincial Office of Environment and Forestry, and the Faculty of Forestry USU. This cross-sector collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening synergy in environmental conservation while promoting sustainable development.
 

Several officials attended the event, including the Head of BPDAS Wampu Sei Ular, Ir. Sigit Budi Nugroho, S.Si., M.Sc.; Head of the P2SDM Center Region I, Soleh Sena Santika, S.E., S.Hut., M.Si.; Head of Technical Division of BBKSDA North Sumatra, Ir. Bresman Marpaung; Head of BPTN Region III Stabat BBTNGL, Palber Turnip, S.P., M.H.; Head of Administration Subdivision of the Social Forestry Office Medan, Billy Indra, S.P.; and Head of Administration Subdivision of BPHL Region II Medan, Abdul Karim, S.P.
 

From the academic side, the event was attended by the Vice Dean II of the Faculty of Forestry USU, Dr. Ir. Pindi Patana, S.Hut., M.Sc., IPU, along with faculty staff.

In his remarks, Ir. Sigit Budi Nugroho emphasized the importance of sustaining the spirit of environmental conservation efforts.
“This tree-planting activity as part of Hari Bakti Rimbawan is carried out with sincerity and togetherness. More importantly, we must continue to maintain the spirit of planting and preserving the environment,” he stated.
 

Meanwhile, Dr. Ir. Pindi Patana highlighted the need for innovation in the forestry sector, including exploring conservation-based economic opportunities.

“Forestry professionals must continue to innovate and identify opportunities, including developing conservation-based businesses as alternative sources of income. For example, planting lemongrass within the Faculty of Forestry can provide economic value, even for cleaning staff,” he explained.

Carrying the theme “Sincere Work, Quality Governance: Foresters Building Sustainable Livelihoods,” the activity began at 08:00 WIB and continued until completion. Participants planted trees at several locations within the Faculty of Forestry USU Bekala area, Deli Serdang Regency.
 

This activity was not merely symbolic but also represented a concrete step toward strengthening ecosystem functions and mitigating climate change within an academic environment. Additionally, it is expected to raise environmental awareness among students and reinforce cross-sector collaboration in natural resource management.
 

The 43rd Hari Bakti Rimbawan serves as a reminder that environmental conservation efforts must go hand in hand with innovation, particularly in advancing sustainable green economy initiatives.

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