KIC-Nafas Research: Air Pollution in Jabodetabek Increased During PPKM

The implementation of Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) in June-July 2021 did not contribute to improving air quality in Jabodetabek. Despite a reduction in the number of vehicles, the concentration of PM2.5 particles in Jabodetabek actually increased by 12%.

This phenomenon was discovered through research conducted by Nafas in collaboration with the Katadata Insight Center (KIC) and the Bicara Udara Community.

Nafas also noted that several areas in Jabodetabek experienced a significant increase in air pollution during the June-July 2021 PPKM. PM2.5 levels in Kelapa Gading rose by 21%, Kuningan by 17%, South Bekasi by 24%, and West Bogor by 33%.

A similar situation occurred in Bintaro, although the increase was less significant at 3.4%.

According to Nafas, the Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB) and the Work From Home (WFH) policy in 2020 also did not significantly reduce PM2.5 levels in Jabodetabek.

PM2.5 Pollution Influenced by Season

According to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), 70% of Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Particulate Matter (PM2.5) pollution in urban areas comes from motor vehicle emissions.

However, Nafas' findings show that PM2.5 pollution did not decrease with a reduction in motor vehicle mobility.

Nafas found that PM2.5 levels are influenced by seasonal changes and wind patterns. PM2.5 pollution decreased significantly during the rainy season and increased during the dry season.

Rain can cause a decrease in PM2.5 pollution of up to 8.71%, while the decrease due to wind can reach 66%. If there is both rain and wind, the decrease in PM2.5 will be even greater.

(Also Read: Cities with the Highest Air Pollution in Southeast Asia, Where Does Jakarta Rank?)