Tree Planting Movement: A Concrete Step to Restore Nature and Reduce Carbon Emissions

Various hydrometeorological disasters in Indonesia, such as those in Sumatra some time ago, serve as a reminder that maintaining nature’s balance is no longer just an option, but a shared responsibility. Hari Sanjaya Siregar, Chairman of the Sihatihat Sanjaya Center Foundation, stated that this is where the importance of environmental restoration efforts, such as the tree planting movement, lies. “The reduction of forest cover, uncontrolled land conversion, and the impacts of climate change have increased the risk of increasingly frequent hydrometeorological disasters,” Hari said in a written statement on Wednesday (1/7). “Therefore, environmental restoration efforts must become a collective movement involving all elements of the nation,” he added. Hari said that through the tree planting movement, the foundation he leads invites the community, government, businesses, academics, and the younger generation to jointly carry out environmental rehabilitation. According to him, tree planting is not only aimed at regreening affected areas but also at strengthening the soil’s absorption capacity for water and reducing the potential for flooding. Tree planting can also prevent erosion, preserve the sustainability of water springs, and protect the continuity of ecosystems that support community life. “Tree planting is a real contribution to carbon emission reduction efforts. Trees function as effective absorbers of carbon dioxide (CO₂), thus helping to curb the rate of global warming,” he said. The wider the green areas built and maintained, Hari assessed, the greater Indonesia’s contribution to tackling climate change and creating a healthy, clean, and sustainable environment for future generations. “We believe that solving environmental problems cannot be done partially. Strong collaboration is needed between the government, the community, businesses, academics, community organisations, and all stakeholders to build a sustainable greening movement,” he said. He expressed hope that tree planting must become a culture and a shared movement, not just a ceremonial activity, but a long-term commitment to preserving the earth.