Over the past ten days, a severe heatwave has swept across Europe, causing at least 2,300 deaths in 12 major cities. This extreme weather is no longer a seasonal phenomenon; it now stands as an alarming symbol of the global climate crisis.
The recurrence of such weather patterns reinforces the notion that climate change is not a threat to the future, but a disaster of the present. Researchers have found that human activity has increased average temperatures by up to 4°C, exacerbating the intensity, duration, and spread of heatwaves worldwide.
In response, Dr. Djaka Marwasta, an expert in environmental geography from the Faculty of Geography at UGM, explained that heatwaves are directly linked to climate change caused by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
“The rise in GHG concentrations has driven the increasing frequency, duration, and spread of heatwaves globally,” he stated on Tuesday (Jul. 15).
According to Dr. Marwasta, the greatest challenge posed by this phenomenon lies in the vulnerability of the elderly, who are particularly sensitive to extreme temperature changes.
“In Europe, the elderly population is significant, so the impact is deeply felt. However, Indonesia also has a sizable elderly population that requires special attention,” he noted.
He emphasized that mitigation strategies must focus on vulnerable groups. One concrete step is relocating elderly individuals to safer housing during heat waves. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of public education.
“Literacy on heatwaves and climate change must be promoted widely through various media channels to reach all levels of society,” he added.
Furthermore, he called on youth and policymakers to take meaningful action.
“We need policies that are not only reactive but structurally capable of reducing the impacts of climate change. Young people must foster a mindset and behavior that prioritize sustainability,” he affirmed.
As global warming becomes increasingly unavoidable, all parties, individuals, communities, and nations, are urged to take action. Ultimately, the climate crisis is a shared responsibility, and heatwaves are merely an early warning sign.
Author and Post-editor: Kezia Dwina Nathania
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Illustration: Freepik