El Niño: Indonesia fire emissions in 2026 ‘on track’ to match record for this century
Wildfires in Indonesia are projected to generate emissions comparable to those recorded during the country's most severe fire season this century, according to recent research. As of 7 September 2026, fires have already released 76 million tonnes of carbon, aligning with the trajectory observed in 2015, when 2.6 million hectares of land burned, producing 333 million tonnes of carbon. Experts note that parts of Indonesia, particularly Papua, are experiencing unprecedented levels of burning. Historical records indicate that the 1997 fire season emitted carbon equivalent to 13–40% of global fossil fuel emissions that year, while the 2015 fires contributed more CO2 than the entire EU's fossil fuel emissions. This year's fires coincide with an El Niño event, which exacerbates dry conditions and increases fire risk. Scientists predict this El Niño could be among the strongest on record, further intensifying the situation.
Volunteers are risking their lives to combat Indonesia's devastating wildfires, dubbed "carbon bombs" due to their massive greenhouse gas emissions. In Borneo, the skies are thick with smog, and the air is filled with toxic particles from burning peatlands. Dwi Sujatmoko, a 35-year-old volunteer firefighter, has spent over a month battling the haze, inhaling harmful carbon particles while working to extinguish fires that have scorched 200,000 hectares of forest and farmland since early July. He describes the smoke as akin to tear gas, causing immediate irritation to the eyes and throat. Indigenous Dayak and Banjar volunteers are among those tirelessly fighting the blazes, facing extreme conditions as they attempt to contain the infernos. The fires are part of a broader crisis affecting Southeast Asia, driven by a "Super El Niño" weather pattern that has intensified droughts and created ideal conditions for widespread wildfires. As of late September, Indonesia's fires have already emitted 76 million tonnes of carbon, placing 2026 on track to match the record emissions of 2015, when 333 million tonnes of carbon were released. This year's El Niño, one of the strongest on record, is expected to persist into 2027, exacerbating the situation. Scientists warn that the current fire intensity could surpass even the severe 1997 fire season, which generated emissions comparable to 13–40% of global fossil-fuel emissions that year. Tropical peatlands, which cover 4.5 million hectares in Indonesia, play a critical role in storing carbon. When these peatlands burn, they release vast amounts of greenhouse gases, earning them the label of "carbon bombs." Dr Nisa Novita, a peatland researcher with the Indonesian conservation NGO Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara, explains that peatlands act as long-term carbon sinks due to their waterlogged conditions, which slow decomposition. However, once drained or burned, they can rapidly release stored carbon into the atmosphere. In Kalimantan, peat deposits can exceed 20 meters in depth, holding up to 6,000 tonnes of carbon per hectare, equivalent to the annual emissions of nearly 5,000 cars. The impact of these fires extends beyond Indonesia, affecting neighboring countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Air pollution indices in these regions have reached hazardous levels, with concentrations exceeding 75 times the World Health Organization's safe limits. Thousands of people are experiencing respiratory distress, and the health risks are compounded by the prolonged exposure to toxic fumes. Experts attribute the severity of the fires to human activities, particularly land clearing for agriculture and palm oil production. Peatland drainage for farming creates dry, flammable landscapes that are prone to ignition during droughts. Dr Mark Parrington of the Copernicus Climate Change Service notes that while El Niño does not directly cause fires, it significantly amplifies their occurrence and intensity by creating hotter, drier conditions. Recent conservation efforts, including extensive peatland restoration projects, have helped reduce fire incidence during past El Niño events. However, the ongoing challenge remains formidable, with the potential for further escalation depending on the duration of the current El Niño and the success of continued conservation measures. Volunteers continue their arduous work, determined to mitigate the damage caused by these relentless fires.
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Wildfires in Indonesia are projected to generate emissions comparable to those recorded during the country's most severe fire season this century, according to recent research. As of 7 September 2026, fires have already released 76 million tonnes of carbon, aligning with the trajectory observed in 2015, when 2.6 million hectares of land burned, producing 333 million tonnes of carbon. Experts note that parts of Indonesia, particularly Papua, are experiencing unprecedented levels of burning. Historical records indicate that the 1997 fire season emitted carbon equivalent to 13–40% of global fossil fuel emissions that year, while the 2015 fires contributed more CO2 than the entire EU's fossil fuel emissions. This year's fires coincide with an El Niño event, which exacerbates dry conditions and increases fire risk. Scientists predict this El Niño could be among the strongest on record, further intensifying the situation.
Bias read (Center): The article presents scientific findings and expert opinions without overtly favoring any particular perspective. It provides historical context and discusses the role of natural phenomena like El Niño, along with human factors such as land clearance and peatland drainage. There is no indication of
Why factuality (85): The article accurately references Dr. Guido van der Werf's work at Wageningen University and cites the Global Fire Emissions Database (GFED) as a primary source. It provides specific data points such as 76m tonnes of carbon emissions in 2026 and compares them to historical records like 2015 and 1997
Why objectivity (80): The article presents the information in a neutral tone, discussing the implications of the fire emissions without overt bias. However, it uses emotionally charged language such as 'emissions-intensive fires' and 'severe haze,' which could be seen as subtly influencing reader perception.
Volunteers in Indonesian Borneo are working tirelessly to combat severe wildfires that have burned over 200,000 hectares of land since early July. These fires are exacerbated by a 'Super El Niño' phenomenon, which has caused extreme drought conditions. The fires are particularly dangerous because they are burning through vast peatland areas, which store large amounts of ancient carbon. When these peatlands burn, they release significant quantities of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and methane, contributing to environmental concerns. Volunteer firefighters, many of whom are indigenous Dayak or Banjar people, are using manual tools and portable equipment to fight the blazes, despite the health risks posed by the thick, toxic smoke.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of the situation, focusing on the environmental impact of the wildfires and the efforts of volunteer firefighters without taking a clear ideological stance. It includes quotes from affected individuals and experts, presenting both the human and ecological的角度.
Why factuality (85): The article provides detailed descriptions of the situation in Indonesia, including the scale of the fires, the efforts of volunteer firefighters, and the health impacts of the smoke. It cites specific figures such as 200,000 hectares burned and mentions the involvement of indigenous communities. Wh
Why objectivity (78): The article presents a vivid and emotionally engaging narrative, focusing on the personal experiences of volunteers and the severity of the situation. While informative, it uses descriptive language that may lean towards emphasizing the danger and sacrifice, potentially influencing the reader's perc
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