1997 Indonesia forest fire

A big disaster

In the past 30 years of history, the 1997 Indonesia Forest Fire is probably one of the worst and most serious cases of forest fire that occurred in Southeast Asia. The forest fire started around May/June and intensified during September and October. An estimated of 45,600 km² of vegetation was burnt to the ground.

Picture of Indonesia Forest Fire 1997

forest fire 2

Image: http://airpollution-chempj.blogspot.sg/

Forest fire 1

Image: http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Features/CoralDeath/coral_death2.php

 

The fire occurred on Indonesia peatlands and peat-swamp forest (PSF) and these peats are rich in carbon. Improper drainage dries up these lands and exposed the carbon-rich peat which releases tons of carbon dioxide when burned. Under normal circumstances these peat act as carbon storage and can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, when these peats get ignited the stored carbon is release rapidly into the air.

What is peatland?

It is simply an area of peat. Peat is the accumulation of decayed vegetation and they are mainly formed in wetland conditions. They are plants which did not decay fully and is form over a very lengthy period of time. These peats are very rich in carbon and it can serve many purpose, for example it is used as fuels in places like Scotland. (clink here to learn more)

 

Example of how peat can be use as fuel

peat fire 1

Image: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Feu_de_tourbe.JPG

Peatland in Indonesia

peatland 1

Image: http://www.water.mottmac.com/waterprojects/?mode=type&id=291918

Video showing peatland burning in Indonesia