TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Recent flash floods in Sumatra and tidal flooding along Java’s northern coast are signs of a bigger problem. Greenhouse gases are trapping heat in the atmosphere, causing climate changes that lead to heavy rainfall. This change is worsening the damage to the environment.
Dwikorita Karnawati, a professor from Gadjah Mada University, points out how deforestation contributes to this crisis. She notes that cutting trees may seem trivial at first, but it has far-reaching effects. “People think it’s just a tree,” she said, highlighting that even small actions can lead to significant issues, similar to the “butterfly effect.” This theory suggests that tiny changes can have huge impacts over time.
Trees play essential roles. Their roots help hold the soil, preventing erosion, while their leaves filter carbon dioxide, providing oxygen. When we lose trees, we disrupt entire ecosystems, setting off a chain reaction that affects both wildlife and human communities.
Today, many coastal areas in Indonesia face serious tidal flooding, raising the question: what are the actual causes behind this issue? It’s crucial to understand that our choices, both big and small, have consequences for the planet.
Research indicates that coastal flooding is becoming more common globally. According to a 2021 report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), sea levels could rise by over a foot by 2050, endangering coastal populations. Indonesia, with its vast shoreline, stands to face significant challenges in the coming years.
For a deeper dive into how these events affect local ecosystems and communities, check out the full article in Tempo English Magazine.
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environmental damage, Dwikorita Karnawati, Sumatra, Deforestation
