Climate change threatens future of coastal youth, destroys local economy

Jakarta—Increasingly extreme climate change threatens the future of youth in Indonesia’s coastal areas. On Monday, October 29, Hendra Wiguna, chairman of Kesatuan Pelajar Pemuda dan Mahasiswa Pesisir Indonesia (KPPMPI), stated that threats to marine ecosystems and coastal economies could derail the younger generation’s hopes of building a better future.

Environmental conditions in coastal areas are now increasingly concerning, especially because they are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

“Youth in coastal areas have the spirit to make changes, but the challenges faced are very large,” Hendra said in a written statement. He says the lack of access to education and skills improvement, especially in small island areas, inhibits coastal youth development. In addition, the government’s partiality in protecting the environment and coastal economy is also considered less than optimal.

Hendra added that the risk of working at sea is increasing with climate change. High waves, extreme weather, and declining catches are challenges that young fishermen must face. “Catches that are not necessarily well rewarded also force them to rethink continuing to work at sea,” he said.

A report from the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) in 2021 shows that the economic potential of the coastal and marine sectors lost due to climate change between 2020 and 2024 is estimated to reach IDR 81.53 trillion. The impact is most pronounced in coastal Java and Sulawesi and will continue to threaten the local economy if not addressed immediately.

Hendra said it was important for the government to work with coastal communities to formulate climate change mitigation and adaptation plans. “Coastal communities need to be equipped with adaptation skills to have good climate resilience,” he said.

Hendra continued, “This step should be taken with a comprehensive approach, where coastal youth are trained to increase the value of fishery products and optimize resource potential in a sustainable manner.”

Furthermore, Hendra revealed that Indonesia needs a clear roadmap for climate change adaptation and effectively implemented regulations.

“There needs to be a leader in the government who focuses on dealing with the impacts of climate change. Regulations made must be appropriate and involve coastal communities from planning to policy evaluation,” he explained.

Hendra emphasised that communication between the central and local governments needs to be improved so that climate change adaptation and mitigation policies can be implemented better. (Hartatik)

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