By : Arifin Iskandar )*
Indonesia, with its abundant natural wealth, has great potential to become a leader in sustainable development. One important step in this direction is the construction of Rempang Eco City. Rempang Eco City is an urban concept that aims to combine economic development with environmental preservation, and Indonesia has many reasons to adopt this concept. Rempang Eco City is a central government project to develop Rempang Island and its surroundings into an industrial, trade and tourist area. The construction of this project also aims to encourage competitiveness with Singapore and Malaysia.
The government, through the Minister of Investment/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Bahlil Lahadalia, ensures that the Rempang Eco City project will continue despite the fact that there are still a few obstacles on the administrative side with the community on Rempang Island itself. Apart from that, we also as the people of Indonesia must know what the benefits or advantages of the Rempang Eco City national project are on the welfare of the surrounding community and the impact on a national scale.
One of the most obvious reasons to build an Eco City is environmental protection. Indonesia is home to extraordinary biodiversity, as well as abundant natural resources. Eco Cities can help protect fragile ecosystems and promote environmentally friendly practices such as the use of renewable energy and wise waste management. By integrating green technology and efficient management systems, Eco City is able to reduce negative impacts on the environment, maintain unique biodiversity, and secure important natural resources for the future of Indonesia and future generations.
In addition, Eco City also encourages environmental awareness among its residents, inviting them to participate in nature conservation efforts and reduce their personal carbon footprint. By prioritizing the environment in urban planning, Indonesia can lead in global efforts to keep our planet livable.
One of the reasons for building Eco City is related to climate change. Climate change is a significant global threat, and Indonesia is not immune from it. Eco City promotes the use of renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and other adaptation strategies that can help the country reduce greenhouse gas emissions and deal with the possible impacts of climate change. The use of renewable energy, such as solar panels and wind turbines, within Eco City not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also reduces dependence on fossil energy which is vulnerable to global price fluctuations. This is an important step towards cleaner and more reliable energy for Indonesia.
Eco City encourages sustainable transportation, including the use of electric vehicles and infrastructure for pedestrians and bicycles. Thus, the use of conventional motorized vehicles which contribute to air pollution and carbon emissions can be reduced significantly, helping to improve air quality and reduce the impact of climate change. Indonesia often experiences natural disasters caused by climate change, such as floods and landslides. Eco City can design better drainage systems, and more efficient water management to reduce this risk. Buildings designed to be earthquake resistant can also minimize damage during an earthquake.
Climate change can threaten clean water supplies. Eco City with its advanced water management system can ensure that clean water remains available to its residents, even in times of extreme dryness. This also helps protect freshwater ecosystems that are important to Indonesia. Through sustainable Eco City development, Indonesia plays an important role in global efforts to reduce the impact of climate change. These positive actions can strengthen Indonesia’s position in international climate negotiations and encourage other countries to follow the same path towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Eco City was designed with a focus on the quality of life of its residents. This includes green open spaces, efficient transportation, and pedestrian-friendly urban design. All of this contributes to an urban environment that is healthier, safer and more attractive to live in.
Eco City development can also be an impetus for sustainable economic growth. Investments in renewable energy, green technology and sustainable infrastructure create new jobs and contribute to sustainable economic development.
Reducing dependence on fossil fuels through the use of renewable energy can improve the country’s energy security. Eco Cities that use solar, wind and water energy can reduce their vulnerability to fluctuations in global energy prices.
Eco Cities tend to have better public transport systems and sustainable infrastructure such as bike lanes and safe sidewalks. This can increase population mobility and reduce traffic congestion.
A well-maintained and sustainable Eco City can become an attractive tourist destination. Incoming tourists bring additional income and encourage the maintenance of local nature and culture.
By building an Eco City, Indonesia can become an inspiring model for other countries facing similar environmental challenges. This can strengthen Indonesia’s role in the international world in environmental conservation efforts.
While the journey to Eco City is not always easy, this long-term investment has the potential to provide huge benefits for Indonesia and future generations. With strong commitment from the government, private sector and society, Indonesia can become a leader on the journey towards a more sustainable and green future.
)* The author is a Media Space Contributor
