Publications·December 30, 1997
Tremendous growth in the human population, numbers of vehicles, and industrial development in the Jabotabek region have led to a significant deterioration in air quality in Jakarta. Near the main roads, in the most industrialized and polluted areas, annual TSP (total suspended particle) averages are 5 to 6 times the national air quality standard. High ozone concentrations indicate that secondary pollutants have developed as a result of nitrous oxide and VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions. Applying the essential components of an air quality management system to Jakarta's pollution problem, the report suggests an action plan listing abatement measures for the short, medium, and long terms. Recommended actions fall under two categories: institutional and technical. A single institution with a clear mandate and sufficient resources should be made responsible for air quality management in the city. In addition, data gathering and processing capabilities should be improved. It is crucial that gross polluters be identified and penalized, diesel quality improved, and low-lead or unleaded gasoline made cheaper than leaded to encourage its use. Clean vehicle emissions standards should be introduced for all vehicle classes and enforced by vehicle inspection and maintenance. The sulfur content of heavy fuel should be reduced. Finally, awareness-raising through public and private organizations is key to bringing about policy changes.
This report examines the worsening air quality in Jakarta, Indonesia, driven by rapid urbanization, motorization, and industrial growth in the Jabotabek region (Jakarta, Bogor, Tangerang, Bekasi). The Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) near major roads and industrial zones are 5 to 6 times the national standard, underscoring a critical pollution crisis.
High levels of ozone (O₃) suggest that secondary pollutants—formed through chemical reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—are also a major concern.
To address this, the report applies the Air Quality Management System (AQMS) framework and proposes a strategic action plan with short-, medium-, and long-term abatement measures. These are divided into:
1. Institutional Measures
Assign a single citywide authority with a clear mandate and adequate resources for air quality management.
Improve data collection and processing systems.
Build inter-agency coordination mechanisms for policy enforcement and monitoring.
2. Technical Measures
Identify and penalize gross polluters, including outdated industrial facilities and high-emission vehicles.
Improve diesel and fuel quality, and incentivize the use of low-lead or unleaded gasoline.
Implement and enforce clean emissions standards across all vehicle classes, supported by a robust inspection and maintenance regime.
Reduce sulfur content in heavy fuels used in transportation and industry.
3. Public Engagement
Conduct awareness-raising campaigns through government, civil society, and private organizations to foster public support and behavioral change.
Key Words / Topics:
Urban air pollution
Jakarta / Jabotabek
Total Suspended Particulates (TSP)
Ozone (O₃)
Nitrous oxides (NOx)
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Diesel and fuel standards
Vehicle emissions control
Institutional reform
Public awareness
AQMS (Air Quality Management System)
Monitoring and enforcement