Klaten

Rural livelihoods around the Pusur River watershed in Indonesia faced growing pressure from multiple environmental and social factors. Poor water and environmental management practices weakened the ecosystem, while unsustainable farming methods increased soil degradation, particularly in the management of water use among farming communities. A lack of collective governance created tensions, especially during the dry season. As a result, the rural ecosystem became increasingly fragile. 

Launched in 2010 With the support of the Danone Ecosystem Fund, Danone AQUA, and local partner LPTP, the Klaten project was implemented to improve rural livelihoods while preserving the Pusur River watershed. The project adopted an integrated approach combining sustainable agriculture, animal husbandry, and local economic development. 

The initiative supported communities through farming and livestock programs, helping improve agricultural practices and diversify income sources. In parallel, the project promoted the development of home‑based industries, creating additional revenue streams for rural households. Income generated through these activities enabled communities to co‑finance local infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of irrigation systems, maintenance of roads, and improvement of public facilities. This reinforced collective ownership and long‑term sustainability of interventions. 

By linking rural economic development with environmental stewardship, the project strengthened sustainable land and water management across the watershed. 

The project became fully independent and was handed over in 2015. To this date community empowered under the project continues to strengthen the work through Multi-stakeholder forum (MSF) named “Pusur Insititut”.