Analysis of land conversion to economic growth: the case of other purpose areas

Abstract

Land conversion is a shift in the function of a portion or all of the land area from its original use to another function that has an influence on the land’s potential. Land conversion in the Papua region is most common in other purpose areas (OPAs), which are allocated based on the neemoment’s needs. OPA management in sustaining life support systems may benefit the community and aid in environmental preservation. Growing economic activity has resulted in increased population settlements and pressure on land usage through land conversion. This study used a system dynamics model to examine changes in land conversion caused by the community’s dynamic economic and social activities. The simulated findings until 2040 demonstrate that land conversion contributes considerably to economic growth through land use for agriculture, settlement, industry, infrastructure, and commerce. Through the increased value obtained, this land usage benefits the population’s economy. The region, which does not have an OPA, tends to use the main forested areas to meet the community’s demand for farmland.