Indonesia is facing its worst wildfire season in a decade, with central Kalimantan among the areas at the centre of attention. The fires are being examined through a focus on peat, the material found in the region’s ground that can burn during wildfire outbreaks.
Liza Tambunan is in central Kalimantan to explain what peat is and why fires involving it are considered particularly serious. The report explores the nature of peat fires and their role in the country’s current wildfire crisis.
The focus on peat comes as Indonesia experiences a significant increase in wildfire activity compared with recent years. Understanding the material and the way it burns is central to explaining the scale and seriousness of the fires affecting the country.
The latest reporting from central Kalimantan is intended to provide further context on Indonesia’s wildfire season and the particular dangers associated with peat fires.