Enviro News Asia, Bogor — Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Environment and Vice Head of the Environmental Control Agency (KLH/BPLH), Diaz Hendropriyono, has praised the Bogor Agricultural University (IPB) for maintaining green open spaces covering more than 90 percent of its campus area, describing the institution as a model for other universities in addressing climate change.
Speaking during the Environment Day event commemorating World Environment Day 2026 on Thursday, Diaz said IPB’s achievement far exceeds the minimum requirement stipulated under Law No. 26 of 2007, which mandates that at least 30 percent of an area should consist of green open spaces.
“IPB is extraordinary. Its green open space has reached 91 percent. According to the law, regions are only required to provide 30 percent. IPB should become an example for other universities when discussing climate change,” Diaz said.
He warned that the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly visible around the world. Comparing temperatures before and after the Industrial Revolution, Diaz noted that the Earth’s average temperature has risen by approximately 1.4 to 1.6 degrees Celsius.
The rising temperature, he said, has accelerated the melting of glaciers in Papua’s Jayawijaya Mountains and contributed to sea level rise. Citing research conducted by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), he said around 1,500 small islands in Indonesia could be submerged by 2050.
“As temperatures increase, glaciers melt. The ice in Jayawijaya has been shrinking and could disappear completely within the next two years. BRIN’s studies also indicate that 1,500 small islands may be lost by 2050,” he said.
Diaz urged students and the public to take simple but meaningful actions to combat climate change by planting trees.
“The simplest way to address climate change impacts is through tree planting. Humans need trees. One person, one tree. If you do not yet have a tree at home, plant one,” he said.
Also attending the event, BRIN Chairman Arif Satria emphasized that both World Environment Day and Earth Day serve as important reminders to strengthen environmental awareness.
“World Environment Day on June 5 and Earth Day are equally important because they share the same purpose. Regardless of the date, environmental issues remain important,” Arif said.
The event was attended by Vice Chairman of the House of Representatives Commission XII Sugeng Suparwoto, Vice Chairman of Commission XI Fauzi Amro, IPB Rector Alim Setiawan, Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs expert Prayudi Syamsuri, Forestry Ministry senior adviser Dida Mighfar Ridha, students, and representatives from the private sector. (*)
