Indonesia Plants 5 Million Trees to Save Its Future Capital
Indonesia has planted five million trees to restore the ecosystem around its future capital, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan, Borneo, as part of a broader effort to build a "green" and sustainable city.
The tree-planting program is designed to combat deforestation and environmental damage in the region, which has faced significant ecological strain in recent years. Officials say the trees will help rebuild forests, protect wildlife, prevent soil erosion, absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, and support local water supplies [208441].
The project is a key component of the government’s promise to minimize harm to the surrounding rainforest as it moves its administrative center from Jakarta to the new capital. Local workers and volunteers have participated in planting across thousands of hectares, with more trees expected to be planted in the coming months [208441].
The effort aligns with broader national environmental initiatives, including a push to improve waste management systems and reduce plastic pollution within a one-year deadline set by President Prabowo Subianto [207115]. Additionally, the government is promoting green industrial practices, such as offering tax incentives for factories that adopt sustainable standards, as part of a larger strategy to balance development with climate goals [205859].
The move to Nusantara is expected to take several years, and the recent planting effort is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring the new city is built with minimal harm to its natural surroundings [208441].