Unpatti plants 500 tree seedlings to preserve the environment

Ambon (ANTARA) - Pattimura University (Unpatti) in Maluku has planted 500 tree seedlings to commemorate its 63rd anniversary, as a form of commitment to environmental preservation and climate change mitigation in the region.

The Rector of Unpatti, Freddy Leiwakabessy, in Ambon on Wednesday, said that this activity is part of the reflection on the institution’s journey, which not only focuses on academic development but also on making a real contribution to environmental sustainability.

“We see this 63rd anniversary as not just a celebration, but also as a commitment to making a positive impact on the environment and sustainable development in Maluku,” he said.

He said that tree planting has strategic significance for Maluku as an archipelago that is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and environmental damage.

According to him, the geographical conditions of Maluku, which are dominated by coastal areas, hills, and small islands, make the presence of trees and green areas very important to maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

“Tree planting in Maluku is not just a ceremony, but an ecological necessity. Trees play a role in absorbing carbon, maintaining air quality, and strengthening the environment’s resilience to the threat of climate change,” he said.

He explained that, scientifically, tropical forests are able to store large amounts of carbon reserves, so that greening activities are part of a real contribution from universities in supporting efforts to mitigate climate change at the regional level.

In addition, he added, tree roots help to prevent erosion and reduce the risk of flooding and landslides, especially in areas with sloping topography such as in the city of Ambon and several other areas in Maluku.

“As an educational institution, we have a moral responsibility to educate the public that protecting the environment is a long-term investment. The trees planted today will provide ecological and economic benefits for future generations,” he said.

The tree planting activity was also attended by the Regional Secretary of Maluku, Sadali Ie.

Sadali expressed his appreciation for the initiative and emphasised that the tree planting movement should be a sustainable effort, not just a ceremony.

“On behalf of the Maluku Provincial Government, we appreciate this tree planting movement. This is not just a ceremonial activity, but a form of joint commitment to protect the environment,” he said.

He emphasised that of the 500 tree seedlings planted, at least 75 percent are expected to grow well, so monitoring and the provision of reserve seedlings are needed for replanting.

“If we plant 500 tree seedlings, we hope that at least 75 percent will grow well. Therefore, monitoring and reserve seedlings are needed to replace those that do not grow,” he said.

According to him, tropical forests have a strategic role as carbon sinks because they are able to store between 30 to 250 tons of carbon per hectare depending on the type and condition, so that greening activities are an important part of climate change mitigation.

“Trees have ecological and economic functions. The trees we plant today not only provide greenery, but also contribute to absorbing carbon which has an impact on climate change,” he said.