Journal of Meteorology: Forest conversion to palm oil triggers temperature spike

Jakarta – New research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Forestry Meteorology reveals the serious impacts of converting tropical forests to oil palm plantations. The study shows an increase in air temperature of up to 6.5°C in oil palm plantation areas compared to primary tropical forests. This has sparked great concern about climate change and its impact on Indonesia.

Erma Yulihastin, a researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), explains that these drastic land use changes affect microclimates and increase the risk of environmental damage.

“Forests turning into oil palm plantations can significantly change the microclimate. This research in Borneo shows that the air temperature in oil palm plantations rises to +6, 5°C higher than the air temperature in the forest. Clearly, this exacerbates climate change!” said Erma via X or Twitter, on Sunday, January 12.

The research was conducted by a joint team from several international institutions, including Imperial College London and the University Museum of Zoology Cambridge. They studied the relationship between Leaf Area Index (LAI)-an indicator of leaf cover density-and five key climate variables: air temperature, relative humidity, vapour pressure deficit, specific humidity and soil temperature.

The results showed that primary forests have much lower temperatures than logged-over forests and oil palm plantations.

President’s statement sparks debate

Meanwhile, on several occasions, President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his support for the expansion of oil palm land in Indonesia. He even asked people not to worry about the threat of deforestation.

“In the future, we must increase oil palm land. There is no need to fear the issue of deforestation because oil palm also absorbs carbon dioxide like other trees,” President Prabowo said at an event last week.

This statement immediately sparked criticism, especially from academics and environmentalists. Dean of the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University, Budi Setiadi Daryono, said the statement misled the public.

“Oil palm is not a forest plant. This is clearly stated in the Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation No. P.23/2021,” Budi said.

Budi suggested that the government should involve more environmental experts and organisations in formulating policies related to palm oil. “This policy has a big impact on society and the environment. Consultation with various parties is needed to ensure that the steps taken do not damage the ecosystem,” he added. (Hartatik)

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