At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) held in Dubai, Dwikorita Karnawati, the Head of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), underscored the importance of safeguarding coastal ecosystems in Indonesia.
Indonesia, a nation of islands, is composed of more than 17,000 islands. Approximately 60% of its area is ocean, with a coastline that extends up to 99,000 km. Given these geographical conditions, Indonesia is home to a diverse and abundant coastal ecosystem.
However, these coastal ecosystems are also extremely susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Global warming and rising sea levels pose a significant threat to the sustainability of these ecosystems. Therefore, the protection of coastal communities and their ecosystems is of paramount importance.
In this context, Dwikorita Karnawati emphasized the necessity of efforts to protect coastal ecosystems to ensure their safety and sustainability. These efforts should not only involve the government and local communities but also require the active participation of various stakeholders, including researchers, practitioners, and the public.
Understanding our coastal ecosystems and how we can protect them is crucial. By doing so, we can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and protect our planet.
Let’s unite in our commitment to protect our coastal ecosystems, for the sustainability of our lives and those of future generations.