Jakarta, INTI - In the midst of rapid global urbanization, Indonesia is taking strategic steps to balance urban development and nature preservation by establishing Nusantara, the new capital located in East Kalimantan. Nusantara is designed to be a smart forest city, meaning the city will not only serve as the center of governance and economy but also as a model of environmental sustainability.
Nusantara’s vision as a net-zero city by 2045 reflects Indonesia’s strong commitment to the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. This city will be integral to Indonesia’s long-term strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience across the country.
Building a Smart City in Harmony with Nature
One key component of Nusantara is the plan to retain 65% of its area as forest land and marine reserves. This 200,000-hectare area will serve as a conservation zone that preserves Indonesia’s rich biodiversity. Kalimantan is known as one of the world’s largest tropical rainforests, home to endangered species like orangutans, clouded leopards, and hornbills.
According to a report from the World Resources Institute (WRI), East Kalimantan stores about 10% of the total carbon found in Indonesia’s forests. Therefore, preserving and restoring these forests through Nusantara’s development will have a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
Additionally, Nusantara will adopt nature-based solutions in managing its natural resources, including water, air, and land. The city’s drainage system will be designed to mimic natural flow patterns, reducing the risk of flooding and ensuring that groundwater remains clean and preserved.
Renewable Energy and Waste Recycling
Nusantara will not only be environmentally friendly in terms of land use but also in energy consumption and waste management. The Indonesian government has committed to using 100% renewable energy in Nusantara by 2045, including solar, wind, and biomass energy. This initiative will set an example for other cities in Indonesia, given that the country still relies heavily on fossil fuels.
Moreover, Nusantara aims to recycle 60% of its waste by 2045. Currently, waste management remains a significant challenge in many Indonesian cities. According to data from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, only about 15% of waste was recycled in Indonesia in 2020. By making recycling a priority in Nusantara, the government hopes to foster a more responsible waste management culture nationwide.
Combining Technology and Innovation
Nusantara will also be a hub of technology and innovation, with smart infrastructure that leverages the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and artificial intelligence (AI) to manage various aspects of urban life efficiently. Public transportation will be fully integrated with digital technology, allowing residents to move quickly and efficiently while minimizing their carbon footprint.
Developing a Green and Inclusive Economy
Aligned with the global sustainability agenda, Nusantara will be a center of the green economy in Indonesia. The development of green infrastructure, such as energy-efficient buildings and low-emission transportation, is expected to create thousands of new jobs. Furthermore, the government is committed to ensuring that the development of Nusantara is inclusive, allowing all sectors of society to benefit from this economic growth.