Greenpeace Calls on New Leaders in Jabodetabek to Tackle 5 Critical Environmental Challenges

Greenpeace is urging new leaders in the Jabodetabek area to tackle urgent climate issues. This includes Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi. Environmental challenges impact not only comfort but also the economy of these areas.

Jeanny Sirait, a campaigner from Greenpeace Indonesia, highlighted five key issues that need attention: air pollution, flooding and drought, lack of green spaces, rising sea levels, and the urban heat island effect. She stated these problems must be a focus for new regional leaders.

Air pollution is a serious concern in Jabodetabek. At the start of 2024, many areas experienced “unhealthy” air quality. A major contributor is coal-fired power plants. The coordination between local governments has been weak, preventing effective policies to address this issue.

Jeanny mentioned that air pollution leads to around 2,500 premature deaths and costs the economy about Rp5.1 trillion each year in Jabodetabek. She also linked air pollution to the scarcity of green open spaces. In Jakarta, only 5.2% of the area is designated as green, while South Tangerang has 8.5%. Both fall short of the ideal 30% standard.

Green spaces are vital; they help absorb carbon dioxide and act as water retention areas. This is crucial during both wet and dry seasons. The rapid urban development and unplanned land conversion worsen the urban heat island effect, raising city temperatures by 3-6°C compared to rural areas.

The changing climate has led to unpredictable weather, resulting in floods and droughts. In Jakarta, floods can cost the city about Rp2.1 trillion annually. Droughts also hurt farmers in Bekasi, causing financial strain on low-income families who must buy clean water at high prices.

Jabodetabek, with its coastal geography, faces rising sea levels. This threatens coastal areas and small islands with flooding and erosion. The infrastructure and livelihoods of coastal residents are at risk.

Jeanny stated that Jakarta is sinking by an average of 5 centimeters per year, with some areas sinking even faster. The Thousand Islands are particularly vulnerable, losing more than 42 hectares of land on Pari Island due to rising sea levels.

These environmental challenges deepen social vulnerability and economic inequalities in Jabodetabek. The poor and middle class will likely suffer the most, as they have fewer resources to adapt. It’s essential for local leaders to address these issues, promoting resilience and social justice in urban areas.