Extreme Weather Disrupts Economic Activities, Expert: The Impact Has Looked Real

Illustration. (Photo: Doc. Antara)

JAKART Extreme weather triggered by Tropical Cyclone Senyar and other climate anomalies in recent weeks has begun to disrupt economic activity in various regions.

Flash floods, strong winds, heat waves, and sea level rise caused damage to infrastructure and stopped business activities.

Sustainability expert from the Indonesian Institute of Certified Sustainability Practicer (ICSP), Stella Septia emphasized that the climate crisis has become an economic problem today, no longer a projection for the future.

"We have seen the direct impact. This is not a simulation or study on paper," he said in a written statement received by VOI, Friday, December 5.

According to Stella, extreme weather frequency is now increasing and is causing greater cost pressure.

BNPB data shows hydrometeorological disaster losses have continued to rise in the past decade.

"Infrastructure damage, production cessation, and loss of public assets put long-term pressure on the economy, especially vulnerable groups," he said.

He assessed that the government and business actors need to accelerate steps to strengthen adaptation and mitigation through three main priorities: climate-resistant infrastructure development, implementation of climate risk management in government and corporate governance, as well as a more consistent energy transition.

The climate risk must be included in development and business strategies. Without it, our economic resilience will continue to be eroded," said Stella.