Reducing Air Pollution: Indonesia's Strategies For Cleaner Air

Indonesia's air pollution crisis is a pressing issue that demands urgent attention from the government, the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and the international community. The country's poor air quality rankings, the prevalence of pollution-related illnesses, and the extensive damage caused by annual forest fires highlight the severity of the problem. Jakarta, the capital city, is often ranked as one of the most polluted cities in the world, with air pollution levels exceeding the World Health Organization's guidelines. The problem is not limited to Jakarta, as other cities like Surabaya and Medan also report hazardous air quality, especially during the dry season when forest fires are more common.

Indonesia's air pollution is caused by various factors, including forest fires, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and inadequate waste management practices. To address this complex issue, a range of interventions and policies need to be implemented. This includes stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, investment in cleaner technologies, and regional cooperation to tackle transboundary pollution. Additionally, promoting sustainable transportation, improving urban planning, and increasing green spaces can also help reduce air pollution levels.

By taking decisive action and adopting a multifaceted approach, Indonesia can significantly improve its air quality, providing a healthier and more livable environment for its citizens.

Reduce coal combustion and vehicle emissions

Indonesia's air pollution crisis is driven by various factors, including vehicle emissions and coal combustion. To reduce air pollution from these sources, several measures can be implemented:

Reduce Coal Combustion

• The Indonesian government should enact policies to restrict coal emissions, similar to China's successful initiatives.
• Indonesia can learn from China's experience in closing coal mines and implementing policies to curb coal emissions.
• Enforce bans on open burning and control construction dust, paved road dust, and exposed soil, as recommended by Vital Strategies.
• Adopt cleaner technologies and energy sources, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy sources.
• Implement carbon capture and storage technologies to separate, capture, and store carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants.
• Improve the efficiency of coal-burning by investing in high-efficiency power plants, as increased efficiency will mean less coal needs to be burned to generate the same amount of power.

Reduce Vehicle Emissions

• Maintain vehicles regularly, as this can reduce emissions by up to 25% and help cut fuel costs.
• Keep tyres pumped up to the correct pressure, as this also helps reduce emissions.
• Plan trips efficiently by combining multiple tasks into one journey, and consider walking, cycling, or using public transport instead of driving.
• Drive smoothly by maintaining a constant speed, avoiding frequent acceleration and braking, and removing your foot from the accelerator when approaching a red light or stoppage.
• Avoid rush-hour traffic congestion, as constant stops and starts increase fuel consumption and emissions.
• Opt for low rolling resistance tyres, as they require less effort to move, resulting in increased mileage and reduced emissions.

Ban open burning

Open burning of agricultural waste is a common practice in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas, and it has severe consequences for air quality and public health. The Indonesian government has recognized the detrimental effects of this practice and has implemented measures to address it. Here are four to six paragraphs on the topic of "Ban open burning" as a strategy to reduce air pollution in Indonesia:

Indonesia has been grappling with severe air pollution, with cities like Jakarta consistently ranking among the most polluted globally. One of the significant contributors to this crisis is the open burning of agricultural waste, especially in rural regions. This practice involves the burning of crop residues after harvest, releasing large amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere. While it is an effective method for clearing fields, it exacerbates air pollution, particularly in agricultural regions like Java, Sumatra, and Kalimantan.

To combat this issue, the Indonesian government has implemented several initiatives. They have promoted sustainable land management practices and worked towards restoring degraded peatlands, which are highly flammable and contribute significantly to haze during forest fires. Additionally, the government has collaborated with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community groups to raise awareness, encourage behavioural changes, and promote transparency in addressing air pollution.

One of the key strategies to reduce open burning is the enforcement of bans and strict regulations. The government has called for a ban on open burning of waste, including agricultural residues and plastic waste. This measure aims to prevent the release of harmful pollutants, such as dioxins, furans, and heavy metals, which contribute to both local and regional air quality degradation. By prohibiting open burning, the government aims to protect public health and improve air quality, particularly in rural areas where this practice is prevalent.

To support the ban, the government has also recommended alternative approaches to waste management. They have encouraged the adoption of sustainable farming practices that reduce the need for burning, such as leaving crop residues in the field or incorporating them into the soil to improve soil health. Additionally, they have promoted the exploration of converting agricultural waste into energy sources, such as gas, heat, electricity, and biochar. These alternatives not only help reduce air pollution but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly waste management system.

Furthermore, the government has recognized the importance of education and community engagement. They have invested in campaigns to raise awareness about the impacts of open burning and promote alternative waste management practices among farmers and rural communities. By providing information, resources, and support, the government aims to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions and take collective action to reduce open burning.

The ban on open burning is a crucial step towards improving air quality in Indonesia. By prohibiting this practice, the government can reduce the emission of harmful pollutants, protect public health, and encourage more sustainable waste management practices. However, effective implementation and enforcement of this ban are essential to ensure its success. It requires collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and relevant stakeholders to achieve a significant reduction in open burning and, consequently, air pollution in Indonesia.

Control construction dust

Construction dust is a significant contributor to air pollution in Indonesia, especially in Jakarta, which has consistently been ranked as one of the most polluted cities in the world. To control construction dust and reduce its impact on air quality, here are some detailed and instructive guidelines:

Implement Effective Dust Control Measures

• Use protective floor coverings: Instead of the traditional red rosin paper, opt for modern floor protection solutions such as non-adhesive, non-slip fabric rolls. These fabrics are absorbent and protect floors from chemical spills and paint drips. For carpets, use self-adhering plastic sheets or durable polyethylene film to resist punctures and protect against dust.
• Seal ducts and isolate the workspace: Seal return ducts to prevent construction dust from entering HVAC systems and spreading throughout the building. Isolate the workspace by using dust barrier systems, such as Zipwall, to create a dust-tight seal along the ceiling and floor without tape.
• Cover or remove furniture and personal belongings: If possible, remove all personal items from the construction area. Otherwise, cover furniture and belongings with poly plastic sheeting to protect them from dust.
• Use sticky mats and floor paper: Place sticky mats at entry points to capture dust from workers' shoes. Additionally, use floor paper along the walkway from the construction area to the exit to capture any remaining dust.

Use Specialized Tools and Techniques

• Power tools with dust extractors: Invest in power tools with built-in vacuum extractors, such as those offered by Festool and Roan Tools. These tools capture dust at the point of contact, reducing dust by up to 90%.
• Dust barriers: Apply plastic sheeting or "zipwalls" at entry points to contain dust within the construction area. Ensure workers follow proper procedures when entering and exiting to minimize dust escape.
• Air scrubbers: Use portable air scrubbers to capture airborne dust, filter it, and release clean air. Options include rental units from companies like Sunbelt and Dri-Eaz, or purchasing units like the BuildClean System, which offers a larger filter area and longer filter life.
• Low-dust joint compounds: Opt for low-dust joint compounds that reduce airborne dust by making it fall to the floor, making cleanup easier.
• Water and chloride for dust suppression: Use water, an inexpensive and effective method, at least three times a day to control dust. Alternatively, consider chloride, which retains moisture for longer periods, helping to keep dust down.

Emphasize Cleanliness and Worker Hygiene

• Establish designated entry and exit zones: Minimize the spread of dust by limiting the points of entry and exit for workers.
• Cover intake registers and seal gaps: Cover intake registers in the work area to prevent the HVAC system from spreading dust. Seal gaps around unused doors to contain dust within the workspace.
• Use canvas tarps or polyethylene sheeting: Place these on the floor to reduce dust transfer and protect floors from scratches and spills.
• Regular cleanup and vacuuming: Ensure workers perform adequate cleanup at the end of each workday. Use vacuums and sponge mops to remove settled dust from the site.

By implementing these measures, contractors can effectively control construction dust and contribute to reducing air pollution in Indonesia.

Improve waste management

Indonesia's waste management issues are a significant contributor to its air pollution crisis. Open burning of waste, including plastic, is a common practice in areas with limited waste collection services. This releases a range of harmful pollutants, such as dioxins, furans, and heavy metals, contributing to both local and regional air quality degradation. To improve waste management and reduce air pollution, Indonesia can implement the following measures:

Increase Investment in Waste Management Infrastructure

Indonesia's waste management sector is significantly underfunded, with local government allocations falling far below international benchmarks. This has resulted in a lack of solid waste management infrastructure, which cannot keep up with the country's waste generation. Increasing investment in waste management infrastructure is crucial to improving the situation. The government should allocate more resources towards building and maintaining waste management facilities, ensuring that waste is disposed of properly and does not end up being burned in the open.

Promote Recycling and Reuse

Indonesia has introduced several regulations that encourage recycling and reuse, such as the Government Regulation No. 81 of 2012, which requires individuals to reduce and manage their waste through the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle). However, more can be done to promote and facilitate recycling practices. The government can provide incentives for recycling, such as deposit-refund systems or buy-back centres, and ensure that recycling facilities are easily accessible to the public. Additionally, public education campaigns can raise awareness about the importance of recycling and provide information on proper waste disposal methods.

Support and Formalize the Role of Informal Waste Collectors

Informal waste collectors play a crucial role in Indonesia's waste management economy. These individuals, often making a living from collecting and selling valuable recyclables, are estimated to handle a more significant portion of recyclable waste than the formal sector. By supporting and formalizing their role, the government can improve waste management practices and reduce air pollution. This can include providing legal status and recognition to these waste collectors, offering social protections, and integrating them into the formal waste management system.

Implement Waste-to-Energy Technologies

Indonesia can explore waste-to-energy technologies to address its waste management issues and reduce air pollution. These technologies convert waste into usable forms of energy, such as electricity or fuel. By investing in waste-to-energy infrastructure, Indonesia can not only improve waste management but also contribute to its energy security. However, it is important to ensure that these technologies are deployed sustainably and do not contribute to further environmental issues, such as air emissions or water pollution.

Enhance Enforcement of Waste Management Regulations

While Indonesia has introduced various waste management laws and regulations, enforcement remains a challenge. The government should strengthen enforcement mechanisms to hold large polluters accountable and ensure compliance with waste management regulations. This includes increasing monitoring and inspection efforts, imposing stricter penalties for violations, and providing sufficient resources for enforcement agencies to carry out their duties effectively.

Implement stricter emissions regulations

Indonesia's air pollution crisis is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including transportation emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices. To effectively address this problem, implementing stricter emissions regulations is essential. Here are four key approaches to strengthen emissions regulations and mitigate air pollution in Indonesia:

Update and Strengthen Existing Regulations:

Indonesia's current air pollution regulation dates back to 1999 and needs to be updated to reflect the urgency of the current situation and the effects of climate change. The government should work on amending and strengthening the existing regulations to address the worsening air quality effectively. This includes setting more stringent emission standards for vehicles, power plants, and industrial facilities.

Adopt European Emission Standards:

Indonesia could benefit from adopting European emission standards, such as the Euro 4 and Euro 5 regulations. These standards are known for their tighter restrictions and have been successfully implemented in other countries. By following these standards, Indonesia can significantly reduce emissions from vehicles and power plants, improving air quality for its citizens.

Focus on the Transportation Sector:

Transportation emissions, particularly from vehicles in urban areas, contribute significantly to Indonesia's air pollution. The government should implement stricter emissions standards for vehicles, including passenger cars, light-duty vehicles, and medium-duty vehicles. This includes adopting more advanced technologies, such as electric vehicles, and improving fuel efficiency. Additionally, incentivizing the use of public transportation and promoting sustainable mobility options can help reduce vehicle emissions.

Enhance Monitoring and Enforcement:

Strong enforcement mechanisms are crucial to ensure compliance with emissions regulations. The Indonesian government should invest in advanced monitoring technologies and increase the frequency of inspections to identify violators. Significant polluters should be held accountable through strict penalties and fines. By doing so, the government can deter non-compliance and protect the health and well-being of its citizens.

By implementing these stricter emissions regulations, Indonesia can make significant progress in reducing air pollution and improving the quality of life for its population. It is important to recognize that a combination of these approaches, along with public awareness and international cooperation, will be necessary to address this complex issue effectively.

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