Low Emission Zones: Jakarta’s Concrete Step to Curb Air Pollution
Reported by Aldi Geri Lumban Tobing | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata
The Jakarta government continues to roll out concrete solutions in its ongoing efforts to curb air pollution. One such measure is the implementation of Low Emission Zones (LEZ), which have proven potential to significantly slash pollutant concentrations.
Encouraging a transition from private vehicle use to public transit and eco-friendly transportation
According to the Feasibility Assessment of Low Emission Zones by Breathe Jakarta 2025, the widespread and integrated implementation of LEZs could cut PM2.5 concentrations by as much as 30 percent.
Discussions regarding this policy took center stage during the drafting of the Gubernatorial Regulation on Low Emission Zones, involving researchers from the University of Indonesia and international partners from C40 through the Breathe Cities program. This collaboration underscores the Jakarta government’s commitment to ensuring that its policies are data-driven and aligned with global best practices.
Jakarta Studies Expansion of Integrated Low Emission Zone AreaC40 City Advisor for Breathe Jakarta, Fadhil Firdaus stated that implementing an LEZ in just a single Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) area is already capable of reducing local PM2.5 levels by 8 to 11 percent and by 3 percent city-wide. He believes the impact will be significantly amplified if these zones are implemented simultaneously across multiple interconnected areas.
“Low Emission Zones drive a shift in urban mobility, encouraging a transition from private vehicle use to public transit and eco-friendly transportation. With the right interventions in place, we can achieve a substantial decline in air pollution,” he expressed, Monday (4/13).
Beyond that, the LEZ framework is designed to be integrated with other sectors—such as waste management and green building standards—to deliver a broader and more sustainable environmental impact.
Research Center for Human Resources and the Environment at the University of Indonesia’s Graduate School of Sustainable Development, Sri Setiawati Tumuyu emphasized the critical role of a science-based approach in executing this policy.
In her view, the implementation of LEZs should follow a phased approach, taking into account infrastructure readiness, social dynamics, and the community’s economic activities.
She added that striking a balance between environmental protection and the sustainability of economic activities is paramount, ensuring that the policy does not trigger resistance, but rather fosters positive behavioral shifts.
“Low Emission Zones are more than just a concept; they must be tangibly implemented. Hence, thorough and well-thought-out planning is essential to ensure the policy is both effective and well-received by the public,” she noted.
Jakarta Environmental Agency Head, Asep Kuswanto stated that the local government is continuously intensifying measurable air pollution control measures that deliver a direct and tangible impact on the community.
“Low Emission Zones are one of the strategic initiatives we are championing. Curbing air pollution cannot be achieved in a vacuum; it requires cross-sectoral and cross-regional synergy, as well as active support from the public,” he explained.
Asep remains optimistic that through data-driven policies, inclusive and equitable phased implementation, and robust collaboration, these efforts will yield tangible improvements in air quality.
“This is a testament to the government’s commitment to ensuring cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable air quality for the people of Jakarta,” he emphasized.
