Geography
Why Volcanic Soils Support Dense Agricultural Populations
Quick fact
Indonesia, home to over 400 volcanoes, has some of the most fertile soils on the planet, allowing dense populations to thrive despite eruption risks.
Why this is interesting
Some of the most crowded places on Earth—like the island of Java—sit right next to active volcanoes. Why would millions of people choose to live in the shadow of a potential disaster?