Forest Loss in Indonesia: Imperiling Environment Security in Asia-Pacific

Abstract

Current literature on deforestation in Indonesia presents a multitude of data on the local environmental effects. But a framework incorporating the causes and implications for the Asia-Pacific region is incomplete and underdeveloped. The aim is to provide answers to the question if deforestation in Indonesia is caused by human ignorance, mismanagement and design or by accident and what the non-traditional security threat/s to the region is. An environmental approach examines the deforestation picture in its global context, then narrowing the scope down to a conception and operational definition for the region. The main findings suggest that uncontrolled management of deforestation creates uneven natural resource distribution, asymmetrical environmental issue-linkages, ecological imbalances and regional climate change. Empirical data shows that by the year 2015, the islands of Sumatra, Sulawesi and Kalimantan will be cleared of its natural vegetation. In contrast to the middle half of the twentieth century, when approximately 50% of Indonesia was still covered with lush and tropical rainforests, the current picture seems a little gloomy. By the end of 2007, 72% of the natural rainforests have been cut down. This means that Indonesian timber, unless drastic measures are not taken, will lose its natural resource value. The implication is that Asian–Pacific countries will feel the burden of increased resource rivalry. In conclusion, it is not possible to reverse the process of deforestation in Indonesia, but the local and regional effects can be ameliorated by effective control and management. A recommendation is that interest groups, for example Global Forest Watch (GFW) should have more say in the negotiation process between the multinationals and government agents. Impact studies by environmental groups can shed light on the biodiversity and ecological dimensions. It is important that governments in the region realize the nature of the problem. Not only will the immediate environment be protected for future generations, but the issue of global warming will also be addressed.