Overview
RimbaWatch is an independent environmental watchdog based in Malaysia, established as the Rimba Disclosure Project and later evolving into its current form. It focuses on producing open-source data and analysis on deforestation, climate change and human rights issues. Its overarching aim is to support a transition that is environmentally sustainable and socially just.
Mission and focus areas
RimbaWatch conducts research and advocacy on climate-related risks, with a strong emphasis on deforestation, fossil fuel expansion and greenwashing. It develops data-driven insights to expose environmental harm and misleading sustainability claims, while promoting accountability among governments and corporations.
The organisation contributes to ESG and sustainable finance by highlighting how weak environmental governance and inaccurate climate disclosures can distort risk assessments. Its work on greenwashing and climate litigation supports more credible ESG reporting and aligns corporate activity with climate and development priorities.
Structure and governance
RimbaWatch operates as an independent research and advocacy organisation headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. It is led by a small team of researchers and campaigners, including co-founder Adam Farhan, and collaborates with regional partners and civil society organisations.
The organisation also acts as secretariat for initiatives such as the Zero Greenwashing Alliance, coordinating efforts among NGOs and watchdog groups in Southeast Asia. This collaborative model enables it to influence policy debates and strengthen regional accountability mechanisms.
Programs and offerings
RimbaWatch produces research reports, investigative analyses and public data tools. Key outputs include the Forest Tracker and Fossil Fuel Expansion Tracker, which map deforestation risks and emissions-intensive projects using open-source data.
It also engages in advocacy and legal action, including climate litigation aimed at strengthening enforcement of environmental claims. These resources provide finance professionals and sustainability practitioners with evidence-based insights into environmental risks, governance gaps and the credibility of ESG disclosures.
