THE air pollution crisis due to fires in Indonesia, which we have been experiencing almost yearly for more than a decade, seems to have no solution.
The question of when this will end is difficult to determine. This is because the haze seems to be almost routine.
The haze is almost considered normal, rather than the harmful environmental problem that it is.
Awareness of haze and its effects on the environment and our health must be disseminated to the public so that we all know how to deal with this issue.
Looking back at past episodes of haze in Malaysia, some significant effects can be seen in social and economic activities.
Adults find it difficult to carry out their daily routine, such as going to work, while for children, schools are forced to close due to the poor air quality.
The haze also affects tourism. A drop in tourists will have a negative impact on the country.
The toxic air can cause many health problems, such as runny nose, cough, sore throat and difficulty in breathing.
Haze also affects agriculture, as it will disturb the photosynthesis process. This is due to the insoluble aerosols attached to the leaves, which can result in lower photosynthesis, lower yields, lower carbon dioxide reduction and increased greenhouse effect.
As a result, plants will have problems in the fertilisation process, resulting in decreased fruit production.
Human actions are the main factor in the haze problem. Some people don’t seem to consider the long-term effects of haze on the environment and health.
Though efforts have been made by the government to address the haze, the authorities have yet to find a way to stop it.
The tendency of some to harm the environment for the sake of profit has caused great losses.
In addressing haze, integration of knowledge and understanding of natural phenomenon is vital. It needs to be viewed in a more holistic context, so that it can be appreciated and well-understood by all. Teach people not to harm the Earth as the impact of their actions will bite them back.
Remember Allah’s words: “Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by (reason of) what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of (the consequence of) what they have done that perhaps they will return (to righteousness).” (Surat Ar-Rum, 30: 41).
ROSMIDZATUL AZILA MAT YAMIN
Fellow, Centre for Science and Environment Studies, Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia