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Indonesia
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See real-time air quality readings (Ministry of Environment and Forestry) |
Background
Indonesia witnesses several environmental issues among which air pollution is a major concern. It is the 6th largest greenhouse gas emitter and contributes 4.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Causes
The main causes are transportation, large scale deforestation and rapid industrialisation. Most of the emissions from the country are due to land use, land-use change, and forestry (LULUCF), which includes forest fires and peat degradation. Energy and transportation-related emissions constitute the rest. The traditional practice of burning agricultural waste and peatlands, especially in Sumatra and Kalimantan lead to numerous wildfire hot spots. Smoke from these fires spreads in the region and affects other areas. Malaysia and Singapore are significantly affected each year between June and September.
Indonesian officials often declare a state of emergency in the majorly affected provinces during periods of increased air pollution or haze. The country incurs major economic losses during these periods. Schools are also closed to protect children from exposure. The health of the population is affected and many require medical attention.
Impact on health
Poor air quality in Indonesia has taken a toll on the health of the population. Over 75,000 cases of upper respiratory infection were reported during the 2015 haze. Another study revealed that 57.8% of Jakarta’s population suffered from illnesses associated with poor air quality including bronchial asthma, bronchopneumonia, and coronary artery disease.
The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution came into force in 2003 to curb pollution in the region. However, Indonesia did not ratify the agreement until October 2014. The ratification instrument was deposited/approved in January 2015. This implies that Indonesia is now committed to resolving the issues of transboundary haze.
Air pollution measurement
Air Pollutant Standard Index (ISPU)
Indonesia has its own air quality scale called 'IPSU' (for Indeks Standar Pencemar Udara). There are active stations in at least 117 locations. Particulate matter PM10 and PM2.5, sulfur dioxide (SO2),carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are used as indicators for the IPSU scale.
| ISPU category | Descriptor |
Health Advice |
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0-50 |
Very good air quality, does not have negative effects on humans, animals, plants. | No restrictions on outdoor activities. |
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51-100 (Medium) |
The air quality level is still acceptable for human, animal and plant health. |
Sensitive groups: Reduce prolonged or strenuous physical activity. |
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101-200 |
The level of air quality that is detrimental to humans, animals and plants. |
People with asthma: Should follow health instructions for asthma and keep asthma medication on hand. |
| People with heart disease: Symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue may indicate a serious problem. |
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| Everyone: Should reduce prolonged outdoor physical activity. |
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201-300 |
Air quality levels that can increase health risks in some segments of the exposed population. | Sensitive groups: Avoid all outdoor activities. Increase indoor activities or reschedule them for times with good air quality. |
| Everyone: Avoid prolonged physical activity outdoors; consider moving activities indoors. |
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> or = 300 |
Air quality levels that can seriously harm the health of the population and require immediate action. |
Sensitive groups: Stay indoors and do minimal activity. |
| Everyone else: Avoid all outdoor activities. |
The Ministry of Environment and Forestry monitors air quality via its Blue Sky program. In 2015, 45 cities were evaluated under the program. There are apps available for smartphones to evaluate air quality in Indonesia such as ‘UdaraKita’ and SMOQ.
The Meteorology Climatology and Geophysics Council routinely monitors particulate matter (PM2.5) at several locations daily.
Reviewed: September 2026
