One of the keynote speakers at the 14th National Seminar on Agricultural Research (SEMNASHAS Faperta UGM), a research professor from the Climate and Atmosphere Research Center of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Prof. Dr. Edvin Aldrian, B.Eng., M.Sc., proposed optimizing an accurate seasonal prediction system. According to him, this system would aid in the strategic planning of food exports and imports, making them more measurable and offering a viable solution for achieving food sovereignty in Indonesia.
In his presentation, delivered in person at the Prof. Harjono Danoesastro Auditorium at the Faculty of Agriculture, UGM, on Saturday, 21 September 2024, Prof. Edvin shared the findings of his research on the impacts of climate change on Indonesia’s seas. Having conducted extensive ocean modeling, Prof. Edvin explained that climate change is reducing the size of Indonesia’s seas, evident from the weakening water currents flowing out to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Additionally, climate change has also led to an increase in the frequency of El Niño and La Niña events in Indonesia.
“El Niño has several negative impacts, including severe drought, water shortages in various reservoirs, and an increase risk of puso or crop failure, particularly in rice production. On the other hand, La Niña causes flooding, hydrometeorological disasters, decreased production in the marine sector, as well as storms and high wave disruptions,” Prof. Edvin explained.
Another compelling fact shared by Prof. Edvin is that climate change also raises sea surface temperatures, causing marine organisms in the upper ocean layers to migrate to deeper waters. This shift poses challenges for fishermen, who must venture further into deeper seas for their catch.
“Fishing in deeper waters is not only more difficult but also more dangerous for our fishermen. Therefore, an integrated seasonal prediction system that comprehensively addresses how land and sea resources can be optimized will help us determine the next steps toward achieving food sovereignty,” Prof. Edvin emphasized.
Prof. Edvin’s detailed discussion on the impacts of climate change on Indonesia’s seas reflects his commitment, in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture, UGM, to achieving SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Writer: Hanita Athasari Zain
Editor: Desi Utami