It found that nearly all, 92%, lacked peat restoration infrastructure such as canal blocks. Less than 2% of concessions had peat restoration infrastructure that was in good condition.

Peat, the ingredient that makes bagged soil light and spongy, comes from wetlands. Often labeled as sphagnum moss or peat moss, it became popular in the 1950s because of its versatility.

This differs from other peat-rich provinces, like South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan, where blocking canals is funded and carried out by private contractors, Silahuddin said.

Even peat pots, Hallett points out, are not a sustainable resource. "Those little fabric things around the peat pots are even worse," he adds. "You can't get rid of 'em.