Forests are complex and dynamic ecosystems. Forest ecosystems have ecological functions that are vital for the balance of life on earth. As a country with the third largest area of tropical forest in the world, Indonesia has a big responsibility to maintain the sustainability of forest ecosystems. The ecological function of this forest is not only important for the local environment but also has a global impact.
One of the main ecological functions of forests is as a carbon sink. Trees in Indonesian forests can absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere through the process of photosynthesis, thereby helping reduce the effects of global warming. Apart from that, forests also function as a provider of oxygen, which is very important for the lives of humans and other living creatures.
Indonesian forests also play a role in maintaining the hydrological cycle. Tree roots help absorb rainwater and store it in the ground, thereby preventing floods and landslides. Additionally, forests help maintain water quality by filtering pollutants before the water flows into rivers and lakes.
As a natural habitat, forests in Indonesia are home to millions of types of flora and fauna, such as Cassowaries, Echidnas and Waigeo Spotted Couscous. This biodiversity is not only important for ecosystem balance but is also a scientific and cultural asset that must be preserved.
Another ecological function is to protect the soil from erosion. The forest canopy reduces the direct impact of rainwater on the ground, while tree roots strengthen the soil structure so that it is not easily eroded.
However, challenges such as deforestation, forest fires, land conversion and illegal hunting continue to threaten the sustainability of the ecological function of forests. Therefore, conservation, reforestation and sustainable forest management efforts are needed to maintain these ecological benefits for future generations.
Rekam Nusantara Foundation, through the Rangkong Indonesia unit, is running a nest tree and food tree adoption program to protect the sustainability of hornbills whose existence is increasingly threatened in nature.
In addition, the INFIS unit collaborated with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to produce a mini-series Merekam Permata Tanah Papua. This series documents Papua's biodiversity and local communities living in harmony with nature. All efforts made by Rekam Nusantara Foundation units aim to inspire and encourage the public to preserve forests in Indonesia.
By protecting forests, we are protecting and balancing local and global ecosystems.
