Melting Pot of the Nation
Rainforest, volcanoes, and megacities: in spite of its overpopulation, Java remains an island of bewildering beauty.
The smallest island of the Sunda archipelago is marked by regular volcanic activity. The eruptions, which often cause death and devastation, are also the basis of the extremely fertile soil. The rainforests here count among the most diverse habitats in the world. The national parks also preserve marine treasures, such as coral reefs.
The smallest island of the Sunda archipelago is marked by regular volcanic activity. The eruptions, which often cause death and devastation, are also the basis of the extremely fertile soil. The rainforests here count among the most diverse habitats in the world. The national parks also preserve marine treasures, such as coral reefs.
Nature on Java is under great pressure as a result of overpopulation. Over 200 million people live in an area about the size of England! Some 80% of the original rainforest has already fallen victim to intense competition for arable land. The state is attempting to protect the remaining wilderness through campaigns to promote family planning, (controversial) resettlements, and an outstanding national parks system.
