Depok, September 25, 2025 — The Faculty of Public Health (FPH) Universitas Indonesia (UI), in collaboration with the Research Center for Climate Change (RCCC) UI, held the International Environmental Health Seminar Envifair 2025 X RCCC UI at the Universitas Indonesia Convention Hall, Depok. Carrying the theme “Breathing Clean, Living Green: Achieving Net-Zero Emissions Towards Different Sectors,” the seminar served as an important forum to seek solutions for Indonesia’s ongoing air quality crisis.
The event brought together academics, practitioners, and students from diverse disciplines to discuss the impact of air quality on health and the environment. The seminar was officially opened by the Dean of FPH UI, Prof. dr. Mondastri K. Sudaryo, M.S., D.Sc., who expressed deep concern over Indonesia’s deteriorating air conditions.
“PM 2.5 concentrations in urban areas, particularly Jabodetabek, are six to eleven times higher than the WHO’s safe limit. This has significant impacts on human health and ecosystems,” stated Prof. Mondastri.
She emphasized that air pollution is a complex and transnational issue, often exacerbated by forest fires and agricultural practices.
“Vulnerable groups are the most affected, underscoring the urgent need for international collaboration. This seminar serves as a platform to exchange knowledge, strengthen networks, and develop cross-sectoral solutions spanning environment, health, economy, and energy,” he added.
The keynote speech was delivered by Mr. Matthew Perkins from UN ESCAP, who highlighted collaborative approaches to improving air quality and achieving net-zero emissions. He noted that the most severe air pollution occurs in major cities, driven primarily by urbanization.
Insightful presentations from international experts enriched the discussions. Prof. Sotiris Vardoulakis (University of Canberra, Australia) shared findings from the HEAL-HAZE and CANBREATHE projects on wildfire smoke and its health impacts. He recommended practical adaptations, such as using low-cost air quality sensors and DIY air purifiers.
Moderated by Sifa Fauzia, S.K.M., M.K.M., the seminar continued with Prof. Bin Jalaludin’s presentation on Health Effects of Air Pollution from Biomass Burning. He noted that air pollution is the world’s second-largest environmental risk factor for mortality, disproportionately affecting children, the elderly, pregnant women, low-income communities, and those with chronic illnesses. In Indonesia, pollution has been linked to premature births, diabetes, COPD, and lung cancer.
The second session explored innovations in clean energy and green economy initiatives. Dr. Gopika Indu emphasized the importance of adopting solar energy in rural areas to reduce indoor air pollution, while Mr. Nyoman Gde Satrya Wibawa (UNEP-FI) discussed the implementation of the Green Economy and the financial sector’s role in supporting net-zero goals through the Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB).
Through this international seminar, FPH UI and RCCC UI reaffirmed their commitment to leading collective action, deepening cross-disciplinary understanding, and developing long-term solutions for a healthier and greener Indonesia. (EAR)