Advancing SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Universitas Andalas Launches One Million Foster Tree Movement for Environmental Sustainability

Padang, February 7, 2026 — Universitas Andalas reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation and cross-sector collaboration through the launch of the One Million Foster Tree Movement, contributing to the achievement of SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The initiative was declared during the Bukit Karumuntiang Declaration, involving collaboration between the university, alumni, and regional stakeholders.

The declaration was officially inaugurated by the Governor of West Sumatra, Mahyeldi Ansharullah, through a symbolic planting of one million foster trees at the Experimental Garden of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Andalas, Limau Manis, Padang. The movement was initiated by the Alumni Association of the Faculty of Agriculture (IKA Faperta Universitas Andalas) as part of efforts to strengthen environmental preservation and sustainable natural resource management in West Sumatra.

Governor Mahyeldi emphasized that the movement aligns with the development agenda of West Sumatra for 2025–2029, which prioritizes food security, sustainable agriculture, and the protection of strategic areas and watershed ecosystems. “This declaration reflects a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, not merely as a short-term agenda, but as a long-term responsibility,” he stated.

Representing Universitas Andalas, Vice Rector II, Dr. Hafrizal Handra, highlighted the university’s strong potential to support the greening movement. He noted that Universitas Andalas manages nearly 500 hectares of land, much of which consists of green campus areas that can be developed as a model for sustainable campus forest management and productive tree planting.

Meanwhile, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Gusmini, SP, MP, explained the concept of “Foster Trees,” which forms the core of the movement. Under this approach, each individual who plants a tree is responsible for its continuous care, ensuring the sustainability and long-term impact of the program.

Through this declaration, Universitas Andalas, together with the regional government and alumni network, strengthens collaborative efforts in sustainable reforestation initiatives. The tree planting and maintenance program is expected not only to preserve terrestrial ecosystems but also to generate long-term ecological and economic benefits for the community.