20 - Social ecology

Abstract

The vast Indonesian archipelago is a "melting pot" for many ethnical groups, cultures and developments. The more than 200 different ethnical groups have inhabited nearly every feasible ecological niche of this unique part of the global biosphere. The Indonesian archipelago is home to about 10% of all species living on the globe. This fact makes this biogeographical region so extremely important and interesting for the understanding of the working of life-forms, evolution and ecosystems. The past environment in Central Java has been very supportive for the development of the human species from the Java man (Pithecanthropus erectus) via the Solo man (Homo erectus soloenis) to Modern Man (Homo sapiens sapiens). Ironically, the conventional pattern of development seems to use natural resources in a way that no sustainable development can be expected. Only sound resource management can provide a strong base for the continuation of a sustainable development of about 250 Million people living in harmony with the remaining nature in the Indonesian archipelago.