Java

Java

Java is the least extensive of the four large Sunda islands, but it is the heart of Indonesia, of which it is the most populous and economically developed part, with an area of 125,622 km², which rises to 132,174 km² with the nearby island of Madura, administratively and physically joined to the main island.
From a geographical point of view the island has an elongated rectangular shape; it measures 1060 km in an east-west direction, while its width varies from 55 to 200 km. Located between 5° 52′ and 8° 37′ south latitude, it is separated from Sumatra by the Sunda Strait and from Bali by the Strait of the same name.
This island is part of the southernmost and external arc of Indonesia and overlooks the large trenches of the Indian Ocean towards the south (Java Trench, 7725 m) and the sea of the same name towards the north.
The main population center is Jakarta, the capital and main city of Indonesia, located on the northwestern coast of the island of Java, with an area of 661.52 km² and a population of 10,770,487 inhabitants as of 2019.

Etymology –
The etymology of the name “Java” is a matter of debate, but some theories suggest that it may derive from the Sanskrit word “Yava-dvipa”, meaning “barley island”. This theory is based on the ancient connection between the region and Sanskrit culture, as Java had significant influence from Indian culture through trade and cultural influence.
Other theories suggest that the name may derive from the Malay word “jawa” or the Javanese “juwa”, meaning “bean”, referring to the island’s bean-like shape.
It is important to note that the etymology of place names can be complex and often involves a combination of linguistic and cultural influences throughout history.

Geographical Features –
The island of Java is the most populous in Indonesia and has a wide range of geographical features. Here are some of the main ones:
– Barisan Mountain Range: Located in the western part of the island, this mountain range is famous for the Krakatoa volcano.
– Dieng Mountain Range: It is located in the central part of the island and is home to the Dieng volcano complex.
Java is dotted with numerous active volcanoes, the most famous of which is Mount Merapi, one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
Other known volcanoes include Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, and Mount Bromo, famous for its lunar landscape.
The Java Plain is one of the most fertile and densely populated areas in the world. This plain is fed by volcanic sediments which make the soil extremely fertile.
Rivers flow through the island, helping to irrigate agricultural lands. Some of the major rivers include the Solo and the Progo.
Parts of the island are covered in tropical forests, although deforestation has been a significant problem due to population growth and agricultural activities.
The coasts of Java are home to several beaches, including some popular tourist destinations. Beach activities are popular along the island’s coasts.
Java’s climate is tropical, with high temperatures throughout the year. The rainy season runs from November to March, while the dry season runs from April to October.
Java is also home to important urban centers, including Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, located on the northwest coast. Other urban centers include Surabaya, Bandung and Yogyakarta.
Overall, Java’s geography is diverse and offers a unique combination of natural beauty, agricultural resources, and population and environmental management challenges.

Historical Notes –
Java has a long history of human settlement dating back thousands of years. The first traces of civilization on the island date back to the Neolithic period.
In ancient times, Java was influenced by several cultures, including Indian and Chinese kingdoms, which contributed to the formation of local states and kingdoms.
Hindu-Buddhist Kingdoms:
Between the 8th and 15th centuries, most of Java was ruled by kingdoms influenced by Indian and Buddhist cultures. Borobudur, one of the largest religious sites in the world, was built during this period.
Majapahit Empire:
One of the largest and most powerful empires in Southeast Asia, the Majapahit Empire, was founded in the 13th century and reached its peak in the 14th century under the reign of Hayam Wuruk.
Majapahit was an important commercial and cultural center, with a strong Hindu-Buddhist influence.
Islamization:
In the 15th century, Islam was brought to Java by Muslim traders and began to gain ground. Over time, most of the island converted to Islam.
European Colonization:
In the 16th century, the Portuguese were the first Europeans to reach Java, followed by the Dutch in the 17th century. The Dutch established their control over the island and founded the Dutch East Indies.
Dutch colonial period:
The Dutch maintained control over Java for several centuries. They exploited the island’s resources, including fertile land, and built an economic structure based on the cultivation of coffee, tobacco, and sugar cane.
World War Period:
During World War II, Java was occupied by the Japanese Empire. After the Japanese defeat in 1945, Indonesia proclaimed its independence.
Independence of Indonesia:
After the war, the Dutch attempted to re-establish their control over Indonesia, but were repelled. In 1949, Indonesia officially gained independence, ending Dutch colonial rule.
Post-independence period:
After independence, Java became an integral part of Indonesia. The island has experienced rapid economic growth and urbanization, becoming the political and economic center of the country.
Today, Java is one of the most populated and industrialized regions of Indonesia, with a unique culture that reflects its multicultural history. Its capital, Jakarta, is the political and economic center of the country.

Ecosystem –
The island of Java, located in Indonesia, is characterized by a rich ecosystem that includes different types of habitats, from the coast to the mountains. Here is a general overview of the ecosystem of the island of Java:
Tropical Rain Forests:
Tropical rainforests cover a significant part of the island of Java. These forests are characterized by a great diversity of plant and animal species. Tall trees, lianas and a variety of epiphytic plants help create a rich and complex environment.
Mangroves:
The coastal areas of the island are home to mangroves, which provide a unique habitat for several species of plants and animals. Mangroves play a crucial role in protecting coastlines, preventing erosion and providing a nutrient-rich environment for fish and other marine creatures.
Wetlands:
Java has several wetlands, such as lakes, swamps and rivers. These areas are important for biodiversity and often serve as habitat for migratory birds and other aquatic species.
Plains and cultivated fields:
Much of Java’s lowland areas have been converted into crop fields for agriculture. Rice fields are common, and rice cultivation is an essential part of the island’s economy and culture.
Urban Areas:
Cities such as Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, are located on the island of Java. Urban areas affect the surrounding environment, leading to problems such as air and water pollution.
Mountains:
The island of Java is home to several mountain ranges, including the Bromo and Semeru mountains. These mountain environments are characterized by unique flora and fauna adapted to cooler climatic conditions.
Nature Reserves and National Parks:
To preserve Java’s rich biodiversity, nature reserves and national parks have been established. These protected areas aim to conserve natural habitats and preserve endangered species.
Biodiversity:
The island of Java is famous for its biological diversity, which includes a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to this region.
However, it is important to note that the island of Java is also subject to environmental challenges, such as deforestation, pollution and loss of natural habitats due to urban and agricultural development. Sustainable management of natural resources is essential to protect and preserve the island’s ecosystem.

Flora –
The island of Java, located in Indonesia, is characterized by a rich variety of flora thanks to its tropical climate and the diversity of habitats present. Rainforests, savannas, mangroves and mountainous areas can be found. Below are some of the plant species that can be found on the island of Java:
– Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is a deciduous tree known for its high-quality wood. It grows in the rainforests of Java and is often used for the production of furniture.
– Gum arabic (Acacia senegal): This tree is grown for the production of gum arabic, a substance used in various sectors, including the food and pharmaceutical industries.
– Bamboo (various species): Bamboo is widespread in many areas of the island and is used for the construction of homes, furniture and other artifacts.
– Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera): Coconut palms are abundant along the coasts of Java and provide fruits, coconut oil and other useful products.
– Banana (Musa spp.): Banana plantations are common on the island and provide an important source of food for the local population.
– Durian (Durio spp.): Durian is a fruit known for its strong and particular smell. It is grown in different regions of the island.
– Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger is an important spice in Indonesian cuisine and also grows abundantly in Java.
– Orchids (various species): Orchids are widespread in Java’s rainforests, adding beauty and variety to the island’s flora.
– Ficus (various species): Ficus are common trees in the Java ecosystem and can be found in different shapes and sizes.
– Eucalyptus (various species): Eucalyptus has been introduced into some areas of the island and is grown for wood and other purposes.
This is, of course, only a small sample of the variety of plants present in Java. The island’s flora is extremely diverse and continues to be the subject of scientific studies to fully understand its biological richness.

Fauna –
The island of Java is rich in biodiversity thanks to its geographical location and tropical climate. Below are some of the fauna species that can be found on the island:
– Javan tiger (Panthera tigrisondaica): This subspecies of tiger is native to Java and is one of the rarest species in the world.
– Javan rhinoceros (Rhinocerosondaicus): This rhinoceros is among the most endangered species in the world and inhabits the forests of Java.
– Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas): A subspecies of leopard that lives in the forests of the island.
– Javan Gibbon (Hylobates moloch): A species of gibbon native to Java, known for its dark coat and pale face.
– Javan orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus abelii): Orangutans are large anthropomorphic apes and the Javan subspecies is one of the most threatened with extinction.
– Komodo monitors (Varanus komodoensis): Although the main habitat of these large reptiles is in the Komodo islands, near Java, they can sometimes also be found on the island itself.
– Javan crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis): These saltwater crocodiles can be found in the fresh and brackish waters of Java.
– Birds: The island is home to a wide range of bird species, including the Javan parrot, Javan kingfisher and Javan sun cuckoo.
– Snakes: There are numerous species of snakes on the island, some of which are venomous.
– Amphibians and Reptiles: There are several species of amphibians and reptiles that inhabit the forests and wetlands of the island.
Unfortunately, the biodiversity of this island is subject to change and threats, and many species may be at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, hunting and other environmental threats. Wildlife conservation is therefore an important concern to preserve the biological diversity of Java and the planet in general.

Environmental Protection Actions –
Among the most important environmental protection policies implemented in recent times by the Government we briefly recall the following:
– Biodiversity conservation: Promote and implement measures for the conservation of native flora and fauna. This includes the creation of nature reserves, the protection of critical habitats and the reintroduction of threatened species.
– Water resources management: Implement sustainable policies and practices for the management of water resources, including the protection of sources, the reduction of water pollution and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.
– Environmental education: Develop educational programs to raise awareness among local people and visitors of the importance of environmental conservation. This could include workshops, conferences and educational materials.
– Pollution reduction: Implement measures to reduce air, water and soil pollution. This involves the regulation of industrial emissions, waste management and the adoption of clean technologies.
– Sustainable development: Promote development practices that balance human needs with environmental conservation. This includes sustainable urban planning, low-impact agriculture and the responsible use of natural resources.
– Monitoring and research: Conduct scientific research to monitor the state of the environment on the island of Java. This information can be used to make informed decisions about future actions and adapt conservation strategies.
– Community participation: Actively involve the local community in decisions and actions related to environmental protection. Community participation is often crucial to the long-term success of conservation initiatives.
However, the effectiveness of these actions depends on collaboration between government, environmental organizations, local communities and other stakeholders. In this sense, there is still considerable work to be done.

Guido Bissanti