How Deforestation Contributed to Deadly Floods in Indonesia

The recent deadly floods in Indonesia, caused by monsoon rains and a rare tropical storm, might have been exacerbated by deforestation. Environmentalists and experts have highlighted the impact of forest loss on flash flooding and landslides. Forests play a crucial role in absorbing rainfall and stabilizing the ground, making deforested areas more susceptible to natural disasters. Indonesia consistently ranks among the top countries globally in terms of forest loss, mainly due to mining, plantations, and fires.

In 2024, Indonesia lost over 240,000 hectares of primary forest, slightly less than the previous year. Forests act as a protective barrier, capturing rainwater and stabilizing soil, preventing rapid run-off into rivers. Environmentalists have long advocated for better forest protection, as Indonesia’s forests are critical carbon sinks, home to diverse biodiversity, and vital for endangered species like orangutans.

Following the devastating floods, even Indonesia’s President urged action to prevent deforestation and protect forests. The disaster highlighted the connection between deforestation and the catastrophic event, fueling speculation about illegal logging and forest destruction. The forestry ministry is investigating claims of illegal logging, emphasizing the need to reevaluate policies balancing economy and ecology.

In heavily impacted areas like Batang Toru, multiple companies operate in upstream regions, contributing to deforestation. The conversion of forests into palm oil plantations and other activities increase vulnerability to natural disasters. Sumatra, where the flood damage was concentrated, faces significant risks due to high deforestation rates, impacting river basins and flood susceptibility.

Greenpeace Indonesia’s forest campaign head, Kiki Taufik, criticized the government for granting permits recklessly, leading to massive changes in forest cover and contributing to flash floods. Herry Purnomo, country director at CIFOR-ICRAF, stressed the importance of preventing deforestation and conducting restoration to mitigate flooding risks. Building a sustainable balance between economic development and ecological preservation is crucial to safeguard Indonesia’s forests and prevent future disasters.