The effects of air pollution in Jakarta have seen noticeable improvements lately. Moreover, air pollution in Jakarta has long been a severe environmental problem. It is not necessarily because Jakarta is the most populous city in Indonesia and has a population of more than 10.5 million, but many factors influence it.
As a result of this air pollution problem, of course, it also significantly impacts several sectors. It starts with health, economy, society, and many more. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss the pollution problem in Jakarta, some of its causes, its impact, and how to overcome it. Check it out!
Unveiling The Hidden Effects of Air Pollution in Jakarta
Jakarta is one of Indonesia’s capital cities and the center of various activities, including economy, culture, politics, etc. However, behind its glorious splendor, the capital city is also constantly faced with air pollution problems. So, what is the state of pollution in Jakarta?
Air Pollution in Jakarta
Jakarta has one of the highest air pollution levels in the world and is often the most polluted city in Indonesia. According to the IQAir air quality monitoring website, Jakarta’s air concentration is PM2.5, the highest among all urban centers in Indonesia.
PM2.5 is a tiny particle that harms human health, and its concentration in Jakarta is the highest. This particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) pollutant concentration equals 67 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³). In addition, the lowest air pollution in Jakarta is currently at 33.9 μg/m³ at 01.00 WIB, while the highest occurs at 08.00 WIB, which is at the level of 67 μg/m³.
Air pollution levels in Jakarta tend to be higher during the dry season (April to October) compared to the rainy season (November to March). In addition, Jakarta’s deteriorating air quality has caused various health problems, including respiratory diseases, eye irritation, and cardiovascular diseases. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened health conditions are at higher risk.
What Makes Air Pollution
There are many various factors contribute to air pollution in Jakarta, including:
- Motor Vehicle Emissions
Motor vehicles in Jakarta are one of the main contributors to air pollution. Motor vehicle emissions can produce harmful particles such as PM2.5 and PM10. According to the Ministry of Industry, motor vehicles account for 44% of air pollution in Indonesia.
- Coal Combustion
Coal-fired power plants and industries that use coal as fuel cause emissions of harmful particles into the air. According to BBC Indonesia, the energy sector accounts for 33% of Indonesia’s greenhouse gas emissions.
- Open Burning
Open burning, such as garbage and land burning, also contributes to air pollution in Jakarta. According to the Ministry of Health, waste burning accounts for 5% of air pollution in Jakarta.
- Construction
Construction activities such as excavation and the use of heavy machinery can also cause air pollution. Heavy machinery in the construction sector accounts for at least 5% of air pollution.
- Soil and Road Dust
Dust from soil and roads can also cause air pollution in Jakarta. According to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, road dust accounts for 7% of air pollution in Jakarta.
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Effects of Air Pollution
Air pollution in Jakarta seriously impacts people’s health and economy. Here are some of the health impacts of air pollution in Jakarta:
- Cardiovascular disease
Air pollution has caused cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease and stroke. According to a study by Vital Strategies and the Jakarta Environmental Agency, air pollution in Jakarta causes more than 10,000 deaths yearly.
- Respiratory diseases
Air pollution can also cause respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pneumonia. According to the same study, air pollution in Jakarta causes more than 5,000 hospitalizations of cardiorespiratory illnesses yearly.
- Lung cancer
In air pollution, harmful particles such as PM2.5 and PM10 can cause lung cancer. According to the same study, air pollution in Jakarta causes more than 1,000 lung cancer deaths annually.
- Premature death
Air pollution can cause premature death from cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and lung cancer. According to the same study, air pollution in Jakarta causes more than 10,000 deaths annually.
- Decreased work productivity
Air pollution can cause decreased work productivity due to sickness and absenteeism. According to the same study, air pollution in Jakarta causes health costs of approximately USD 2943.42 million annually.
How to Prevent It?
Here are some ways to prevent air pollution, especially in Jakarta, that you can do:
- Reduce The Use Of Motorized Vehicles
Motorized vehicles are one of the main contributors to air pollution. Instead, you can use public transportation, cycling, or walking.
- Save Energy
Saving energy can help prevent air pollution because it reduces greenhouse gas emissions. You can do this by turning off lights and electrical appliances when not in use, using energy-efficient electrical appliances, and joining energy conservation programs provided by your local power company.
- Using Eco-Friendly Products
Some products, such as paints and household cleaners, can cause air pollution. Therefore, use environmentally friendly products labeled “low VOC” or “zero VOC.”
- Composting Leaves And Grass Waste
Composting leaves and grass waste can reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills. Therefore, use a composter to compost leaf and grass waste.
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So, the devastating effects of air pollution demand immediate attention. With this profound impact on health and the economy, addressing the root causes and taking preventive measures is crucial. By reducing emissions, embracing eco-friendly practices, and raising awareness, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier future for the vibrant city of Jakarta and its residents. Together, we can combat this hidden menace and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable urban environment.
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