Collaboration with PROJECT TREE/RIKEN/IRRI – Fogging Treatment to deal with Pestalotiopsis (Sep 2025)

Rubber plantations have been severely affected by Pestalotiopsis (Leaf Fall Disease), which reduces photosynthesis, causes leaf fall and decreases rubber productivity. This issue also impacts rubber processing factories as raw material supply. To address this issue, Project TREE has initiated a fogging treatment program collaborated with RIKEN as well as IRRI (Indonesian Rubber Research Institute) , the lead research institutions for the Japanese government’s SATREPS* program titled “Project for Development of Complex Technologies for Prevention and Control of Rubber Tree Leaf Fall Diseases”, in Banyuasin & Muara Enim (preparing) in order to support Project TREE registered smallholder rubber farmers in controlling Pestalotiopsis for sustaining plantation productivity. Involving more than 10 farmers through a combination of questionnaire sessions (to know their experience and challenges against Pestalotiopsis), field observations (to assess plantation condition), training (to introduce effective methods), and hands-on fogging practice (to provide direct experience in applying the technique) took place. Farmers were correctly trained to prepare the fungicide mixture (suspension concentrate). We carried out fogging because it produces fine mist that effectively reaches the canopy and the undersides of leaves, ensuring better coverage and disease control. This activity also encouraged farmers to gain deeper knowledge and practical skills in managing Pestalotiopsis effectively.

*Project TREE (Transparent Rubber Ecosystem for Earth) provides new natural rubber transparency & sustainability program designed by ITOCHU Corporation, Japan. It shall protect farmers’ human rights & environment from illegal deforestation and contribute to capacity building.

*SATREPS (Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development) is a Japanese government program that promotes international joint research aimed at solving global issues. Overall research and development management of the international joint research is handled jointly by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST).