Community Forestry in an Islamic Economic Perspective: A Strategy for Environmental and Local Economic Sustainability
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Teguh Ansori
Sofiatul Khusnah
Abstract
Community forestry plays an important role in supporting rural livelihoods and maintaining environmental sustainability. However, economic pressures may encourage farmers to convert forest land into agricultural fields or gardens, potentially affecting forest functions. This study examines community forest management practices, the economic considerations underlying land-use decisions, and their implications from an Islamic economic perspective. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, with field research conducted in 2025 at the Enggal Mulyo Lestari Forest Farmers Group (KTH) in Mrayan Village, Ponorogo, East Java, Indonesia. Thirty participants were purposively selected from 56 group members based on their experience in community forest management. Data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews, and examination of relevant documents. The data were analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that economic considerations, particularly income expectations and the time required to obtain financial returns, are important in understanding farmers’ land-use decisions. Descriptive data showed that an average of 0.5 hectares, equivalent to 43.4% of the reported community forest area managed per household, had been converted to other uses. These findings highlight the need to strengthen the economic viability of community forestry while preserving its ecological functions. From an Islamic economic perspective, sustainable community forest management should promote equitable distribution of benefits, prevent harm, and balance economic welfare with environmental stewardship. The study contributes to discussions on integrating Islamic economic principles into community-based forest management.
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