The centre’s director, Edi Santosa, said agricultural expansion and development are increasing pressure on Southeast Asian ecosystems.
Edi Santosa, director of the regional centre SEAMEO BIOTROP, called for biodiversity protection to be considered alongside agricultural expansion and infrastructure development. He spoke on October 5 at the International Conference on Tropical Biology in Bogor, ANTARA reported.
Santosa listed climate change, land-use shifts, unsustainable resource use and pollution among the pressures confronting governments and communities. He said the challenge is not only to conserve species and ecosystems, but also to ensure biodiversity continues to support people and future generations.
He said science, education, innovation, public policy and regional cooperation are needed. SEAMEO BIOTROP is hosting the conference at the Bogor Agricultural University International Convention Center from October 5 to 7.
The centre works on tropical biology research, professional training and sharing scientific information in Southeast Asia. The conference program covers biodiversity, conservation education and sustainable landscape management.