Meghan Hodges
Indonesia is facing a complex and deeply rooted struggle against pollution. The country is grappling with various forms of pollution, including air, water, soil, and marine plastic pollution, which are taking a toll on both human health and the environment. Jakarta, the capital city, has gained a reputation as one of the most polluted cities globally, with air pollution spiking during the dry season due to a combination of meteorological conditions and high emissions from transport and industry. Forest fires, often caused by illegal burning and slash-and-burn practices, contribute to the infamous haze that not only chokes Indonesia but also spreads to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries. Water pollution, caused by untreated municipal wastewater, industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and mismanaged solid waste, is another pressing issue, with 96% of rivers in Jakarta contaminated. Marine plastic pollution, originating from major rivers and coastal regions, poses a significant threat to marine life and human health, with microplastics found in fish and even table salt. Solid waste management is a mounting challenge, with Indonesia's growing population and urbanization resulting in increasing waste generation.
This overview highlights the critical pollution challenges facing Indonesia and the need for urgent action to protect the environment and the health of its citizens.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air pollution | Jakarta is the most polluted city in the world as of August 2023. Other cities like Tangerang, Bandung, Surabaya, and Medan also report hazardous air quality levels. |
| Water pollution | 96% of rivers in Jakarta are polluted. The main sources of water pollution include untreated municipal wastewater, industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and mismanaged solid waste. |
| Marine plastic pollution | Indonesia is taking actions to combat marine plastic pollution with initiatives like the Plan of Action on Marine Plastic Debris (2017-2025) which targets a 70% reduction in marine plastic debris by 2025. |
| Forest fires | Forest fires in Indonesia, often caused by the slash-and-burn method used by farmers, have contributed to air pollution crises in Southeast Asia in 1997, 2010, and 2015. |
| Deforestation | Indonesia lost 440,000 hectares of forest in 2018, reducing water catchment capacity and deteriorating water quality. |
| Solid waste management | Indonesia's population of 250 million generated around 65.8 million tons of solid waste in 2017, with only about 39% of urban solid waste being collected. |
| Transportation | The Indonesian government is investing in public transport, expanding the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network, and introducing electric buses to reduce emissions and air pollution. |
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What You'll Learn
Reduce plastic pollution in the ocean
Indonesia has been taking action to combat marine pollution, with the coordinating minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment (CMMAI) committing to a "full-system-change approach to combatting plastic waste and pollution". Indonesia's Plan of Action on Marine Plastic Debris (2017-2025) aims for a 70% reduction in marine plastic debris by 2025, targeting plastic pollution at its source. As of December 2022, the government has reported a 35.36% reduction in marine plastic debris.
To reduce plastic pollution in the ocean, Indonesia can implement the following strategies:
- Improve waste management: The government should focus on preventive and reactive waste management strategies. This includes increasing waste collection services, especially in urban areas, and properly disposing of plastic waste to prevent it from ending up in rivers and the ocean.
- Establish a circular economy for plastic waste: Indonesia can implement a circular approach to reuse and recycle plastic litter effectively. For example, they can use plastic recycle materials with asphalt to build roads, which has already been implemented in the country.
- Collaborate with stakeholders: The government, civil society organizations, and communities should work together to share integrated data, develop new business models, establish public policies, and invest in technology and infrastructure to create systemic solutions to plastic pollution.
- Monitor and address marine plastic debris: By utilizing drones and artificial intelligence, stakeholders can detect, quantify, and monitor marine plastic debris. This information can then be used to inform policymaking and guide concrete actions to combat the issue.
- Address water pollution: Water pollution is a significant issue in Indonesia, with 85% of the population exposed to fecal coliform pollution in water sources. The government should focus on regulating domestic wastewater management and ensuring strong law enforcement for industrial waste to reduce water pollution and prevent it from flowing into the ocean.
- Reduce single-use plastics: Single-use plastics are a predominant plastic item identified in major rivers and on beaches. Phasing out single-use plastics can significantly reduce the volume of plastics leaking into the marine environment.
- Improve fishing gear disposal: Fishing gear such as gillnets, trammel nets, and plastic pots can become abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), polluting the marine environment and leading to "ghost fishing". Proper disposal and management of fishing gear can help reduce plastic pollution in the ocean.
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Improve solid waste management
Indonesia has been taking steps to improve solid waste management and reduce pollution. The country has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from solid waste management as part of its international commitments. To achieve this, the government has developed a national strategy in cooperation with development partners to increase investment in waste management facilities and improve institutional capacities.
One example of this is the "Emission Reduction in Cities – Solid Waste Management" program funded by KfW, which provides a concessional loan of EUR 75 million. This program includes constructing modern landfills, establishing sorting and composting plants, and providing technical equipment. The program also focuses on human and institutional capacity-building to ensure the long-term operation of new facilities.
At the municipal level, integrated waste management sites (TPST) have been implemented in Indonesia. TPSTs focus on two main activities: recycling and composting. By assuming that a portion of inorganic waste can be recycled, the subsequent challenge is to manage organic waste properly through composting. This approach has the potential to significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
Indonesia has also targeted marine plastic pollution, with the Plan of Action on Marine Plastic Debris (2017-2025) aiming for a 70% reduction in marine plastic debris by 2025. Efforts to achieve this target include studies to inform policymaking and concrete actions. Additionally, the government has committed to a full-system-change approach to combat plastic waste, recognizing the need for sweeping changes to address this issue effectively.
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Reduce air pollution in Jakarta
Jakarta, Indonesia's bustling capital, is a city known for its vibrant culture and economic opportunities. However, it has also been battling air pollution for decades, threatening the health and well-being of its residents. The time to address this issue is now, for the benefit of current and future generations. Here are some ways that can help reduce air pollution in Jakarta:
Improve Urban Planning and Green Spaces
Jakarta's urban development and construction activities generate dust and pollutants. Unregulated construction practices often lack proper dust control measures. The city's rapid economic growth has resulted in the construction of mega skyscrapers and tower blocks, often without adequate planning for environmental impact mitigation. Implementing reforestation and afforestation programs within the city can increase green cover and reduce pollution levels. Integrating green building practices into urban development is crucial for reducing pollution.
Reduce Vehicular Emissions
Transportation is a significant contributor to air pollution in Jakarta, with an estimated 25 million motorized vehicles in the city. During the dry season, up to 57% of PM2.5 emissions come from vehicles. The government has been investing in public transport, adding new routes, and promoting cleaner fuel options. Expanding mass transit options, such as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network and introducing electric buses, can help reduce vehicular emissions. Additionally, promoting walking and cycling infrastructure can reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
Promote Clean Energy and Reduce Industrial Emissions
Jakarta still burns coal, the most polluting fossil fuel, contributing to the city's poor air quality. Inadequate emissions controls and monitoring have allowed industrial pollutants to accumulate. The government should enforce existing emissions standards on industries and power plants. Encouraging the use of clean energy technologies and providing incentives for households and businesses to adopt them can help reduce pollution from fossil fuel combustion.
Community Engagement and Education
Community engagement and education are vital components of reducing air pollution in Jakarta. Initiatives like World Environment Day, where medical students conducted health promotion and education on the health impacts of air pollution, are essential for raising awareness. Community-driven initiatives and individual choices, such as opting for low-carbon transportation and prioritizing public transportation, can collectively make a significant impact on reducing air pollution.
Regional Cooperation
Air pollution is a transboundary issue, and regional cooperation is necessary to address it effectively. Jakarta's air pollution affects not only the city itself but also the surrounding regions. Collaboration with neighboring cities and international NGOs can help enforce emissions standards and develop coordinated solutions to tackle air pollution on a larger scale.
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Reduce water pollution
Indonesia is home to 6% of the world's freshwater stock, but water pollution is a significant issue, with 96% of rivers in Jakarta reported as polluted. Water pollution is caused by both industrial and domestic waste. Here are some ways to reduce water pollution in Indonesia:
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Single-use plastics (SUPs) are a major contributor to water pollution, as they are often not disposed of properly and end up in rivers and oceans. Indonesia has committed to a "full-system-change approach" to combat plastic waste, with a target to reduce marine plastic debris by 70% by 2025. Individuals can contribute by reducing their use of single-use plastics, reusing items where possible, and recycling or properly disposing of plastic waste.
Properly Dispose of Chemicals and Grease
It is important never to pour grease, fats, or oils down the sink, as these can cause blockages and pollution. Keep a "fat jar" under the sink to collect fats and discard them in the solid waste when full. Similarly, household chemicals and cleaning agents should not be poured down the sink or toilet, as they can contaminate water sources.
Conserve Water
Heating and pumping water requires energy and chemicals, so by wasting less water, we can reduce the pollution generated by these processes. This can be achieved through simple measures such as taking shorter showers, drawing less water for baths, and installing water-efficient showerheads and low-flow toilets.
Improve Wastewater Management
The Indonesian government has implemented regulations for industrial wastewater, but stronger enforcement and better management of domestic wastewater are needed. This includes investing in infrastructure and technology to treat wastewater effectively and ensure it meets the required standards before being released back into water sources.
Address Deforestation
Deforestation reduces water catchment capacity and contributes to soil erosion, increasing the risk of water pollution. Protecting and restoring Indonesia's rainforests are crucial for maintaining water quality and availability.
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Reduce forest fires
Indonesia has been taking steps to reduce forest fires, which cause massive humanitarian, environmental, and economic damage. In 2019, Indonesia's wildfires burned 3.1 million hectares, blanketing six other countries in smoky haze, releasing almost 604 million tonnes of CO2, and causing respiratory illnesses in 900,000 people.
Indonesia has set ambitious goals to halt deforestation and reduce carbon emissions, and reducing the risk of fires is key to achieving these goals. The country has garnered global support, established sub-directorate bodies, conducted public education initiatives, enforced environmental taxes and fines, and engaged with NGOs and international entities to address cross-border smog and haze pollution.
The Indonesian government has also implemented regulatory interventions that fall into four main categories: fire management, forest exploitation and management, disaster management, and decentralization. These interventions have been more effective in reducing forest fire incidents than in countries like Russia, Brazil, Canada, and the United States.
In 2021, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) initiated a pilot project in three of Indonesia's most fire-prone districts, inspired by a "'cluster-based' approach to land management from South Africa. This project has helped build greater fire resistance in these districts, with no fire hotspots found in the first pilot district during the 2022 dry season. The number of reported fires in two other districts decreased from 139 to 88 and from 345 to 109, respectively.
Indonesia's efforts to reduce forest fires are crucial in mitigating the impacts of climate change, as forest fires release large amounts of smoke and pollutants, posing serious health and environmental risks.
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Frequently asked questions
The main sources of pollution in Indonesia are air, water, and marine plastic pollution. Air pollution is caused by forest fires, the transport and industry sectors, and slash-and-burn practices. Water pollution is caused by untreated municipal wastewater, industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and mismanaged solid waste. Marine plastic pollution is caused by plastic waste from rivers and beaches.
The health impacts of pollution in Indonesia include acute illnesses such as diarrhea and chronic diseases such as cancer, organ damage, embryo defects, and stunting. Air pollution is estimated to reduce life expectancy by 2.4 years in Jakarta.
The Indonesian government has implemented the Program for Pollution Control, Evaluation and Rating (PROPER) to regulate industrial wastewater and improve water quality. They are also investing in public transport, low emission zones, and cleaner fuel options to reduce air pollution. Indonesia has also committed to a full-system-change approach to combat plastic waste and pollution, with a target to reduce marine plastic debris by 70% by 2025.
Individuals can reduce pollution in Indonesia by properly disposing of waste, reducing plastic consumption, and supporting environmental organizations working to address pollution.
One of the main challenges in stopping pollution in Indonesia is the lack of infrastructure and services for solid waste management. Additionally, the recurrence of forest fires and the high levels of waste generation contribute to the pollution problem.
