Chief of TNC IPB University Highlights the Importance of a Local Approach in Addressing Climate Change in Agriculture
The Chief of the Farmers and Fishermen Center (TNC) at IPB University, Prof Hermanu Triwidodo, participated as a speaker in the Press Conference for the Launch of the LaporIklim Initiative, organized by the Warga Berdaya Foundation for Humanity at Rumah Wijaya, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta.
The event aimed to inaugurate the LaporIklim chatbot platform, raise public awareness about climate change, and encourage collaboration among various parties in addressing climate issues.
On this occasion, Prof Hermanu expressed his views on the gap between global thinking about climate change and the realities faced by farmers on the ground.
“Often, what is discussed at the global level, such as in climate change mitigation, does not always align with the real needs of farmers, who are more focused on how to maintain their crop production,” said Prof Hermanu.
Additionally, he also highlighted the difference in the meaning of the term ‘we’ as used by academics and field practitioners. “There is a significant difference between the ‘we’ in universities and the ‘we’ experienced by farmers. TNC IPB University strives to bridge this gap so that the solutions implemented better meet the needs of farmers,” said Prof Hermanu.
During the discussion session, Prof Hermanu emphasized the importance of using local knowledge and technology in addressing climate change. “We need to localize global problems with approaches that are appropriate to local conditions. IPB Digitani, for example, provides essential information that can answer various questions from farmers and help them adapt to changes,” he explained.
The launch of LaporIklim is expected to strengthen the role of civil society, academics, and various organizations in addressing climate change. Prof Hermanu stressed, “Collaboration among all parties, such as academics, the government, the media, and the community, is crucial to achieving effective and sustainable solutions.”
The event was also attended by three other speakers: Siswanto, PhD, Chair of the Climate and Air Quality Information Production Management Team at the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG); Nadia Hadad from the Madani Berkelanjutan Foundation; and Tarsono from the Indramayu Climate-Responsive Farmers Association.
The launch of LaporIklim is expected to build stronger synergy between academics, civil society, and the government. Additionally, the Head of TNC IPB University hopes that through IPB Digitani, TNC IPB University can create solutions that are more effective and aligned with local needs in addressing climate change. (TNC/Rz) (IAAS/Aly)
