Indonesia is experiencing its worst wildfire season in a decade, with toxic haze affecting millions and spreading to neighboring countries like Singapore and Malaysia.
The BBC's Liza Tambunan is in central Kalimantan to explain the role of peat in making these fires particularly difficult to contain. Peat is a type of soil composed of partially decomposed organic matter that can store vast amounts of carbon. When peatlands are drained for agriculture or logging, the exposed material becomes highly flammable. Peat fires burn underground and can smolder for months, releasing large amounts of smoke and toxins that affect air quality over long distances.
The fires have led to a thick haze that has impacted air quality across Indonesia and spread to neighboring countries. The situation has raised concerns about public health and environmental damage in the region. This year's fire season is described as the worst in a decade, with the combination of dry weather and human activity exacerbating the problem. The haze has been choking millions of residents, reducing visibility and making outdoor activities dangerous. The environmental impact is significant, as peat fires release greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Why it matters
The peat fires threaten public health and environmental stability in Indonesia and neighboring countries due to prolonged smoke emissions.
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What to watch
The Indonesian government's response to the fires and the effectiveness of measures to control the spread of smoke.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.