We all know that volcanoes are destructive and can devastate a region, kill many people, injure even more, and displace thousands. Mount Merapi is no exception. However, is it possible that Mount Merapi can actually be a benefit to the people living near it? Yes it is! Below are some ways in which Mount Merapi is helpful to people.
- The magma from volcanoes are rich in minerals, As the rocks made of magma cool, the minerals are spread out over a wide area. Some minerals, such as tin, copper and diamond can be found in volcanic rocks. Most metallic minerals can be found within extinct volcanoes. Gases escaping from vents also bring minerals to the surface. This makes volcanoes open to mining, both local and commercial.
- Volcanoes can also generate geothermal energy- heat energy from inside the Earth. Steam from volcanoes is either used to turn turbines for electricity or to heat water for homes.
- Since volcanic rocks have so many minerals, this creates fertile soil too when the rocks erode and the minerals soak into the ground. This is why the villages on the base of Mount Merapi are farming villages.
- Volcanoes also attract millions of tourists. This creates businesses for the locals through stores, guided tours. restaurants, and hotels. This greatly helps the economies of areas near volcanoes!