Since ancient times, humans and wildlife have coexisted, sharing space in a balanced ecosystem. However, over time, the meaning of “well-being” has been questioned. Humans continue to fulfill their needs, while wildlife struggle to maintain their habitats, which are increasingly under pressure.
Today, the world–including Indonesia–is facing massive landscape change. Deforestation due to land clearing and industrial expansion, such as mining, has drastically altered the face of nature. As a result, conflicts between humans and wildlife are becoming more frequent as their natural habitats continue to shrink. This is not just an ecological challenge, but also a call for all of us to be wiser in maintaining the balance between development and nature conservation.
This year’s World Wildlife Day is a momentum to reflect on human greed in exploiting nature. This was also highlighted by Dr. Herlina Agustin, S.Sos., M.T., a lecturer at the Faculty of Communication Sciences Universitas Padjadjaran who is an expert in environmental communication. According to her, humans need to be more aware and understand the current conditions.
“Humans often feel the most perfect, even though we and wildlife are part of the ecosystem. If wildlife becomes extinct, humans will also be affected,” she said.
One clear example of the reciprocal relationship between humans and wildlife is the existence of wild boars. Often considered a pest, wild boars actually play an important ecological role. Their presence helps maintain the population of natural food for leopards. If wild boars are depleted, leopards could run out of food and potentially attack livestock or even humans.
According to Herlina, the welfare of humans and wildlife is equally important. If wildlife can live well in their habitat, then humans will be safer and more prosperous in their environment. One way to reduce this conflict is through communication. Education and counseling can help people understand how to coexist with wildlife and conflict mitigation measures.
As a closing statement, Herlina reminded us all not to disturb wildlife habitats because they are more beautiful living in their own nature.
“Also, reduce the use of pesticides. Not only insects, but also soil and water ecosystems are affected,” she concluded.
Happy World Wildlife Day! Let’s maintain the balance of nature and grow without prolonged conflict with wildlife. [Ed]