In the face of global climate change, Kalimantan is on the brink of an environmental crisis. A recent study has revealed a stark warning: by 2050, regions across Kalimantan could face extreme drought conditions. This blog post examines the findings of climatology researcher Erma Yulihastin from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and discusses the potential implications for the future of Kalimantan, including the new capital city, IKN Nusantara.
The Study’s Alarming Findings:
- Rapid Temperature Rise: Since 1980, global temperatures have consistently risen above natural climate variability, with a significant increase observed in September 2023.
- Impact of a 1.5-Degree Increase: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projected a 1.5-degree increase by December 2034, but this milestone was reached a decade earlier, indicating an accelerated pace of climate change.
Kalimantan’s Vulnerability:
- Drying Climate: Parts of Kalimantan have experienced increased dryness from 1991-2020, particularly in Central and South Kalimantan.
- Future Predictions: The study predicts that this dryness will spread to West and East Kalimantan from 2021-2050, affecting areas such as the IKN Nusantara.
Consequences of Extreme Drought:
- Loss of Biodiversity: The region’s rich biodiversity is at risk due to changing climate conditions.
- Agricultural Challenges: Shrinking agricultural land could lead to food security issues.
- Economic Impact: Decreased marine and fishery productivity may affect the local economy.
The Role of Human Activities:
- CO2 Emissions: Human activities contribute significantly to the climate crisis, with CO2 emissions heating the troposphere and exacerbating climate issues.
The threat of extreme drought in Kalimantan is a wake-up call for immediate climate action. It is imperative for policymakers, environmentalists, and the community to collaborate on sustainable solutions to mitigate the risks and protect the future of the region.
Join us in exploring ways to combat climate change and safeguard Kalimantan’s environment. Share your ideas and be part of the solution.