El Nino Raises Concerns Over Transboundary Haze in Southeast Asia
With El Nino in full force, officials are preparing for the worst transboundary haze in southern Southeast Asia since before the pandemic in 2019. This seasonal haze situation is expected to worsen due to intensifying global warming, making the peatlands and forests in the region more combustible during the dry season. Southeast Asia is home to about 40% of the world’s total peatlands, and the fires and resulting toxic haze are becoming a serious driver of climate change. This adds to the ongoing transboundary haze problem in Southeast Asia, which has caused health issues, deaths, and economic losses in the region for the past 50 years.
The Connected Issues of Haze and Climate Change
Many governments have not yet recognized the connection between haze and climate change. They see the haze as a seasonal issue that comes and goes, while climate change is seen as a constant and ongoing problem. However, these two issues are interconnected. Despite agreements and commitments to achieve haze-free skies by 2030, the haze has returned this year, raising questions about the effectiveness of ASEAN as an organization. This has led to bickering and denials among affected Southeast Asian nations.
Impact of Peatland Fires
Peatlands are a crucial ally in the fight against climate change. They store a significant amount of carbon and play a vital role in reducing emissions. However, when peatlands are drained and cleared for plantations, they become highly susceptible to fires. The organic material in the peatlands decomposes, releasing greenhouse gases. These fires worsen global warming and contribute to the transboundary haze issue in Southeast Asia.
Tackling the Root Causes
To address the transboundary haze problem and its connection to climate change, the root causes of peatland fires in Indonesia must be tackled. This is challenging due to Indonesia’s status as the world’s largest palm oil producer. Sustainable palm oil practices and responsible land management are essential to prevent peatland fires. Regional agreements and legislation, such as Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, aim to hold companies accountable for haze pollution. Awareness and market pressure have also played a role in encouraging companies to adopt sustainable practices.
The Need for Continued Efforts
Despite progress, more work needs to be done to address the transboundary haze issue. Governments must recognize the connection between climate change and haze and make decisions that benefit society as a whole. Sustainable palm oil initiatives and collaborations with stakeholders are crucial in developing a long-term solution. With the return of El Nino, there is an increased urgency to address the transboundary haze problem and protect the region’s peatlands and forests.
