Another horror-story for PNG, the people, and the planet. Stripping tropical forests might get you only two further crops, than you're clearing more land again. What's the sugar for - ethanol? Cropping previous forest land depletes humus and peat content, releasing more CO2 and methane with every disturbance of the soil. Encouraging "private sector" provision of public goods naturally ends with the private sector privatizing the profits and eventually, the public is stuck with the costs (or shortages). Lose-lose situation.
For more on the situation in West Papua, including Merauke, see the recent Judgement of the People's Permanent Tribunal at https://permanentpeoplestribunal.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PPT-JUDGEMENT-WEST-PAPUA_FINAL_3_10_24-1.pdf.
The Judgement was based on many eyewitness testimonies delivered at great risk to the witnesses.
Thanks Larry!
Another horror-story for PNG, the people, and the planet. Stripping tropical forests might get you only two further crops, than you're clearing more land again. What's the sugar for - ethanol? Cropping previous forest land depletes humus and peat content, releasing more CO2 and methane with every disturbance of the soil. Encouraging "private sector" provision of public goods naturally ends with the private sector privatizing the profits and eventually, the public is stuck with the costs (or shortages). Lose-lose situation.
Let me guess for palm oil for our junk food