El Nino and the Worsening Transboundary Haze in Southeast Asia

With El Nino affecting the region, officials are preparing for the worst transboundary haze in southern Southeast Asia since 2019. As climate change poses a threat to humanity, the concern is that these seasonal haze situations will worsen due to intensifying global warming, making peatlands and forests more combustible during the dry season. Southeast Asia is home to 40% of the world’s peatlands, and the fires and resulting emissions are contributing significantly to climate change. This exacerbates the ongoing transboundary haze problem, which has affected the region for the past 50 years, causing health issues, deaths, and economic losses.

The Need for a Unified Approach

Helena Varkkey, an associate professor of environmental politics and governance, explains that most governments view the haze and climate change as separate issues. However, they are interconnected, and a unified approach is necessary to address them effectively. Despite agreements within Southeast Asia to achieve haze-free skies by 2030, the haze has returned this year, raising concerns about the effectiveness of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) as an organization.

Denials and Bickering

Denials and disagreements among affected Southeast Asian nations have hindered progress in tackling the haze issue. Indonesia, for example, denied claims that the hazardous haze from hotspots in Sumatra and Kalimantan had affected Malaysia. This bickering between countries has become a recurring problem.

The Importance of Peatlands

Peatlands are crucial in the fight against climate change. They store large amounts of carbon, making them effective carbon sinks. However, when drained for plantation purposes, such as palm oil and pulp plantations, peatlands become highly susceptible to fires. The carbon stored in the peatlands is released into the atmosphere, accelerating global warming. Conserving and restoring peatlands globally can reduce emissions and revive this essential ecosystem.

Addressing the Root Issues

Tackling the transboundary haze problem requires addressing the root issues of peatland fires in Indonesia. As the world’s largest palm oil producer, Indonesia faces challenges in curbing these fires. Regional agreements and legislation, such as Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, aim to hold companies accountable for contributing to haze pollution. Global consumer companies have also committed to using sustainable palm oil, but there is still work to be done to ensure all companies fulfill their pledges.

The Way Forward

Efforts to combat the transboundary haze and protect peatlands need to be intensified. Governments should recognize the connection between climate change and the haze issue and make decisions that benefit society as a whole. The development of sustainable palm oil practices, along with increased awareness and market pressure, can drive change. Collaboration among stakeholders and the implementation of comprehensive solutions are essential to effectively address the transboundary haze problem in Southeast Asia.