Grade 9 Science Journal (2022)

Dear Laila Afifa,

I would like to express my deepest concerns about the installation of hydroelectric dams in the delicate ecosystem of Sulawesi Island. President Jokowi is a strong advocate of green energy and recently opened two new hydroelectric dams in Sulawesi (Nugraha, 2022). But Jokowi’s green power isn’t green!

Dams can create major problems for a lake’s ecosystem. Dams interfere with the natural fluctuation of water levels, affecting the growth and survival of a variety of species that live along the shores – even the people (Sulawesi Keepers, 2022)! Additionally, dams are separating the subpopulations of fish and other watery wildlife who are already struggling to survive! These dams are only contributing to the degradation of our aquatic habitats which already face increased levels of siltation and run-off due to deforestation and mining along their banks (Sulawesi Keepers, 2022). We don’t need to add further to the destruction!

It is equally disheartening to learn that the developers of these dams frequently proceeded without seeking the consent of the local communities, particularly the Indigenous peoples who call Sulawesi home (Rusdianto, 2017). The blatant disregard for these communities is disgraceful!

The developers of these hydroelectric dams claim that their projects will bring economic benefits to Sulawesi. However, it is essential to ensure that developers respect the rights of Indigenous communities and prioritize the protection of the environment. Potential economic benefits should not come at the expense of human rights and environmental sustainability.

As Sulawesi continues to expand its “green” dam initiative, I ask that we pause and ponder the true benefits of this “environmentally friendly” solution.

Please consider my concerns.

Sincerely,

Caleb Stassen

References

Nugraha, R. M. (2022, February 25). Jokowi introduces 2 new hydroelectric power plants in Sulawesi. Tempo. https://en.tempo.co/read/1564639/jokowi-introduces-2-new-hydroelectric-power-plants-in-sulawesi

Rusdianto, E. (2017, August 15). Indigenous communities resisting dams in Indonesia claim they face repression, rights abuses. Mongabay Environmental News. https://news.mongabay.com/2017/04/indigenous-communities-resisting-dams-in-indonesia-claim-they-face-repression-rights-abuses/

Sulawesi Keepers. (2022, February 15). Our causes. Sulawesi Keepers. https://sulawesikeepers.org/causes/