Here, I won’t give a personal opinion on pollution since it’s not my area of expertise. Instead, I’d like to summarize a YouTube podcast episode featuring Gita Syahrani, Head of the Secretariat of the Sustainable Districts Association (LTKL), in an episode of Endgame with Gita Wirjawan.
Gita, an environmental activist, was taught from a young age to know the Latin names of plants and always express gratitude to them. This practice is mindful, as it acknowledges that plants are living beings deserving of care.
One factor that shaped who she is today is the emphasis her family placed on the philosophy of thought. This led her to develop an interest in environmental regulation as early as middle school. She pursued this passion by becoming an activist to raise awareness of the importance of the environment. In her view, the first step is to make people understand the reason why protecting the environment is essential and to engage with their mindsets, rather than hastily imposing regulations.
In 2010, Gita continued her studies in Scotland at the University of Dundee, majoring in LL.M in Climate Change and Energy Law & Policy. In the podcast, she mentions choosing Scotland partly due to its stunning natural scenery and partly because of its ambitious emission reduction targets. The country’s Center for Petroleum and Mineral Resources offers programs focused on climate change.
One notable point Gita Syahrani emphasizes is the importance of “returning to the roots.” Beyond policy-making, we must also consider behavior change. This can be achieved by fostering collaboration across domains — expertise, sectors, and professions. There’s a theory called collective impact and collective action, which suggests that systemic change requires individual transformation among those who drive the system. A small example of this begins within the family unit. The head of the household can set an example by encouraging small, sustainable actions:
“Don’t litter.”
“Plant a tree.”
“Walk to school.”
“Turn off the lights when not necessary.”
According to Gita, we can live wisely by cultivating these habits starting at home.
So, how do we shift from traditional lifestyles toward sustainability?
First, we need to redefine “enough” based on our individual contexts while maintaining connections to bridge understanding. For instance, we can consider:
- Where does our money go? Purchasing basic goods directly from farmers.
- Where do we invest our energy? Encouraging our workplaces to adopt sustainable practices.
Consumerism in Indonesia has created a strong need for speed and electrification in many aspects of life. Addressing environmental conditions today calls for carbon emission reduction technology, peatland conservation, and reforestation efforts. In Indonesia, even though we have remarkable technological advancements, procedural and licensing issues often leave scientists and engineers under-protected. Preparing not only human resources but also procedures and infrastructure is critical. A basic roadmap might look like this:
Great idea → protection → compensation for creators
Despite these challenges, there’s a business investment forum for nature-based innovation in Central Sulawesi. This area includes Ranjuri Forest, with ancient trees aged 400–700 years, covering about 8 hectares. This forest provides water for two hamlets and nearby villages and acts as a barrier against flash floods. This example reminds us that preserving existing resources can be just as effective as replanting. Through her community, Gita fosters collaboration between youth, local communities, decision-makers at the district and national levels, large businesses, and technology developers.
So, how can incremental change be scaled up?
The answer lies in sustainable “gotong royong” (mutual cooperation).
Gita highlights five current national policy areas needing collective support to encourage alternative economic thinking:
- Energy transition scenarios: Supported by various ministries with diverse targets (2060 or 2050).
- Net-sink volume: A commitment spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, backed by other ministries.
- Conventional plantations: The national action plan for sustainable palm oil, is linked to forest and peatland moratoriums and can be advanced through intensification, productivity increases, and farmer welfare.
- Science and technology development: Valuing biodiversity and seeing bio-economy as a key to the future. Carbon industries should transition, moving from extractive models to bio-economic ones.
- Local reporting to the Ministry of Home Affairs: Impacts budget allocations for sustainable development and regular performance evaluations.
In conclusion, what is the solution to pollution?
First, it begins with collective action, with each region taking responsibility for its commitments. Next, a regional approach is essential, involving policymakers in the process alongside private entities in managing land based on supply chains. Finally, a new “gotong royong” formula asks, “What do we need for ourselves?” “Why are we motivated to be part of this journey?” This approach ensures commitment and support for the long term.
