By: Dani Ramdan
President Joko Widodo officially inaugurated the Wanagama Nusantara forest to support the development of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN), in the Forest Zone of City B within the Core Government Center Area (KIPP), IKN. The inauguration of Wanagama Nusantara is a tangible manifestation of the government’s commitment to preserving the environment, prioritizing tree planting and the restoration of damaged land. Through this program, President Jokowi is not only paying attention to economic aspects but also to the sustainability of the ecosystem in the IKN. The declaration of Wanagama Nusantara also serves as a model for green initiatives across Indonesia, uniting the efforts of the community and the government in combating climate change and environmental degradation.
President Jokowi has prioritized the environment in various policies. The declaration of Wanagama Nusantara in the IKN is a tangible proof of that commitment. Through this declaration, the focus is not only on infrastructure development and economic growth, but also on ensuring that every step of development is taken with consideration of its impact on the environment.
In his speeches, President Jokowi often emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between development and environmental preservation. Wanagama Nusantara is a concrete example of how this principle is applied in practice. With the integration of IKN development and ecosystem restoration efforts, this declaration shows that progress and environmental preservation can go hand in hand.
The concept of Wanagama Nusantara is that the restoration of tropical rainforests must be realized. In addition, the development of infrastructure for a research hub aimed at advancing leading research in the field of tropical sustainability also needs to be undertaken. The Wanagama Nusantara concept is also important as a model for tropical rainforest restoration in the new capital city (IKN). Wanagama Nusantara does not only focus on tree planting but must also include the development of infrastructure for the research hub. This research hub is expected to support leading research in the field of tropical sustainability. With adequate research facilities, it is hoped that understanding and innovation related to environmental sustainability can be enhanced, as well as promote practical solutions to the ecological challenges faced.
The declaration of Wanagama Nusantara not only provides ecological benefits but also social ones. Ecologically, tree planting and land rehabilitation will help reduce soil erosion, improve soil quality, and enhance groundwater storage capacity, which is crucial for preventing natural disasters such as floods and landslides.
In addition, the establishment of Wanagama Nusantara is part of a broader strategy to address climate change. Climate change will have widespread impacts on all aspects of life in every country, including Indonesia. However, the government continues to make efforts to provide the best services to the community. This is what all parties need to understand, so that they do not continue to view things through “blinders” as if the state is not considering the impacts of climate change and environmental effects in every development that is currently underway or will be carried out.
With the presence of Wanagama Nusantara, it is hoped that it can reduce the carbon footprint from the development of the National Capital City (IKN) and contribute to global efforts in climate change mitigation. Furthermore, tree planting in the IKN area is expected to absorb carbon dioxide, reduce the negative impacts of greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality in the region.
The Rector of Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Prof. Dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K), Ph.D., stated that the launch of Wanagama Nusantara focuses on the development of educational forests and interdisciplinary research. This forest is located in the core area of the Capital City Government Center of Nusantara (IKN), covering an area of 621 hectares. Emilia hopes that Wanagama Nusantara will support the vision of the National Capital City (IKN) as a Forest City, which is one of President Jokowi’s priorities in accordance with the mandate of Article 22 of Law No. 3 of 2022. Furthermore, the existence of Wanagama Nusantara is certainly part of UGM’s commitment to supporting the development of IKN as a sustainable city.
From a social perspective, the declaration of Wanagama Nusantara can create job opportunities for the local community and involve them in environmental activities. Community participation in tree planting and ecosystem maintenance helps create awareness and responsibility towards the environment. In addition, Wanagama Nusantara has the potential to become a center for environmental education and ecotourism, providing long-term positive impacts for the surrounding community.
Climate change is a global challenge that requires real action from all sectors. Wanagama Nusantara plays an important role in climate change mitigation through carbon dioxide absorption. The trees that are planted will absorb CO2, the main greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. By increasing the area of forests and vegetation, Wanagama Nusantara helps reduce the carbon footprint and supports Indonesia’s efforts to meet its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.
In addition, the ecosystem restoration carried out in this initiative also helps enhance climate resilience by improving the functions of damaged ecosystems, including forest recovery that can act as a buffer against extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall and drought.
Wanagama Nusantara in the IKN is evidence of President Jokowi’s commitment to preserving the environment while advancing development. The declaration of Wanagama Nusantara reflects the integration between environmental preservation efforts and infrastructure development, demonstrating that the two do not have to be in conflict with each other. Through tree planting, land rehabilitation, and ecosystem restoration, Wanagama Nusantara contributes to climate change mitigation and improves the quality of life for the community. With ongoing support, this project can become a successful example in creating a greener and more sustainable future for Indonesia.
The writer is an environmental observer.