The growing demand for recreational vehicles (RVs) in the United States is strongly linked to deforestation in Kalimantan, according to a new report by international NGOs Earthsight and Auriga Nusantara.
The report named Unhappy Campers, reveals that the US RV industry has become one of the largest consumers of tropical timber globally. Indonesian “lauan” wood is widely used for flooring, walls, and ceilings in leading RV brands such as Jayco, Winnebago, and Forest River.
Earthsight Director Sam Lawson described the findings as ironic. “RV enthusiasts who love nature will be shocked to learn that their hobby risks destroying rainforests,” he said.
Lawson urged US RV manufacturers to adopt minimum sustainability standards, as many major corporations have already done.
From mountains to oceans, delivered to you. Follow us on Lingkar Bumi WhatsApp Channel.
Impact on Kalimantan’s Forests
Indonesia is known for its high rates of deforestation, driven by mining, plantations, and logging. The joint report by Earthsight and Auriga states that much of the orangutan habitat and other critical wildlife areas in Kalimantan have been converted into fast-growing timber plantations.
Kalimantan is home to a range of endangered and endemic species, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards, pig-tailed macaques, fruit bats, and the world’s smallest rhinoceros. The destruction of forests is worsening the threat of extinction for these species.
Timber Supply Chain
The investigation found that Indonesian plywood producer PT Kayu Lapis Asli Murni exported about half of its production to the US in 2024. The shipments were distributed through American importers MJB Wood and Tumac Lumber.
MJB Wood is identified as the main supplier of lauan to Jayco, while Tumac Lumber supplies Patrick Industries, a component manufacturer for brands such as Thor Industries, Forest River, and Winnebago. Based on these findings, the NGOs concluded that Indonesian tropical timber is almost certainly entering the US RV supply chain.
As of publication, the RV companies named in the investigation had not issued any official response. Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry has also not replied to media inquiries regarding the findings. (Sulung Prasetyo)
