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Climate changes
Peatlands are one of the most unique and important ecosystems in the world. Formed from the accumulation of plant remains that decompose very slowly due to waterlogged soil conditions, peat stores a massive amount of carbon. In Indonesia, peatlands not only support biodiversity but also serve as a source of livelihood for surrounding communities. However, this great potential comes with great risk, as dried peat is highly flammable and difficult to extinguish. Peat fires not only damage nearby peatlands but also affect air quality, public health, and accelerate climate change. This article will provide a detailed and practical discussion on how to prevent peat fires in effective and environmentally friendly ways.
The causes of peat fires can be divided into two major categories: natural factors and human factors. From the natural side, prolonged dry seasons and changing rainfall patterns due to climate change cause peatlands to lose their moisture. When peat dries, it becomes a natural fuel that is extremely flammable. From the human side, the practice of land clearing by burning is still common because it is considered cheap and fast. Unfortunately, the fire used often becomes uncontrollable and spreads to wider areas. In addition, habits such as burning trash near peatlands, carelessly discarded cigarette butts, and unsustainable farming practices also contribute to the problem.
Peat acts like a sponge that absorbs large amounts of water. When wet, it is relatively safe. But when dry, the organic layers beneath the surface can smolder for weeks or even months. This underground fire is difficult to detect and extinguish, making it one of the most dangerous types of fires[Ref].
The impacts of peat fires are broad and multidimensional. From an environmental perspective, peat fires destroy natural habitats for endangered species such as orangutans, Sumatran tigers, and various endemic bird species[Ref]. Dead vegetation takes years to recover, and damaged soil loses its ability to store water. In addition, peat fires release carbon that has been trapped for thousands of years into the atmosphere, accelerating global warming[Ref].
From a health perspective, the smoke contains fine particles (PM2.5) that can penetrate deep into the lungs and trigger various diseases such as acute respiratory infections, asthma, eye irritation, and even heart problems[Ref]. Children, the elderly, and people with chronic respiratory illnesses are the most vulnerable groups.
Economically, peat fires can paralyze community activities. Thick haze disrupts flights and land transport, while agricultural and plantation lands experience decreased productivity. The financial losses caused by peat fires in Indonesia are estimated to reach billions of rupiah every year[Ref].
Preventing peat fires is not only about extinguishing fires once they appear but about keeping the land in a condition that makes it less prone to burning in the first place. The main principles to uphold are:
Besides preventing fires, these approaches also improve environmental quality and enhance community well-being.
The first step is maintaining the moisture of peatlands. This can be achieved by creating bore wells and reservoirs to store water, which can then be channeled to the land during the dry season. Closing water-drainage canals is also important to retain water in peatlands.
Regular monitoring is another key factor. In many villages, patrols are carried out by specially trained community teams. They monitor fire-prone areas and report immediately if there are signs of fire. Technology such as drones and soil temperature sensors is also increasingly used for early detection.
For already degraded land, restoration processes must be carried out immediately. Rewetting the land can restore its moisture, while planting native vegetation such as jelutung, ramin, and meranti will help restore the ecosystem’s functions[Ref].
No single party can prevent peat fires alone. Local communities, governments, NGOs, and the private sector must work together. Local communities play a vital role as they are on the frontlines, being the first to see and feel the signs of fire. Governments are responsible for providing infrastructure, equipment, and training, while NGOs can assist with education and funding. The private sector, particularly companies operating near peatlands, has a social responsibility to support prevention efforts.
In several villages in Central Kalimantan, community interventions such as regular patrols, peat restoration, and burning bans have shown significant reductions in fires over the past few years[Ref].
Preventing peat fires is a long-term investment in health, the environment, and the economy. Every step, from maintaining soil moisture, educating communities, to carrying out restoration, requires commitment and cooperation from all parties. By applying effective and environmentally friendly prevention principles, we are not only protecting peatlands but also safeguarding the future of the next generation. No effort is too small, because every positive action taken today will have a major impact in the future.
Jejakin’s green programs combine high-tech monitoring, biodiversity restoration, and community-led initiatives to deliver powerful, sustainable change across ecosystems.
