BRIN: Cassava Flour for Extinguishing Forest Fires Still in Trial Phase

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has stated that the use of cassava flour to assist in extinguishing forest and land fires (karhutla) is still in the study and trial phase. Cassava flour is not yet ready for production or widespread application.

Head of BRIN Arif Satria said that BRIN conducted a theoretical study after receiving information about the practice of using cassava flour to help extinguish fires.

“As soon as I received that news, we carried out a theoretical study. The molecular chemistry experts at BRIN conducted the study and immediately conveyed that it is indeed theoretically correct,” said Arif at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Friday.

Arif emphasised that the theoretical study results do not mean cassava flour has been proven effective for handling forest and land fires on a large scale. BRIN, together with the National Police, is still conducting trials to determine its effectiveness and how to apply it in the field.