Jakarta – A recent survey by Kawula17 highlights the grave environmental challenges Indonesia faces, particularly in its urban areas, which pose severe risks to public health, the group said in a statement on Thursday, October 3. The National Kawula Survey, conducted in July 2024, has revealed that air pollution, clean water shortages, and rampant waste are the primary environmental concerns troubling Indonesians today.
According to the survey, 36% of respondents identified air pollution as the top issue, followed closely by plastic waste management at 32%, flooding at 30%, and industrial waste concerns at 28%. These results indicate widespread public discontent with the government’s handling of environmental policies, with many citizens labeling the governmental response as insufficient.
Rafli Rikin, a researcher at Kawula 17, explained the disparities in perception between urban and rural populations, particularly in relation to rural issues such as fires and illegal logging. “Rural communities living near forests or fire-prone areas bear the brunt of these disasters. Their direct experiences with the devastating impacts of forest fires and deforestation make them more critical of the government’s efforts in these areas than urban dwellers, who might not witness these effects firsthand,” he said.
The survey further suggests that the negative impacts of environmental degradation, including poor air quality and flooding, contribute to the public’s stern judgment of governmental actions. Many believe that the lack of serious governmental intervention in enforcing laws or formulating effective policies exacerbates these issues.
Public dissatisfaction could escalate if the government fails to address these environmental concerns more robustly. “It’s crucial for the government to enhance its performance concerning environmental issues, consider public concerns seriously, utilise supporting data, and take immediate action,” Rikin recommended.
The threat of air pollution, water crises, and waste management issues requires not just governmental action but also active community involvement. The survey underscores the necessity for collective efforts and strong cooperation to foster a sustainable environment and safeguard public health in Indonesia. (Hartatik/nsh)
