Walhi Raise Concerns on Environmental Damages in East Java
April 17, 2015
Friends of the Earth Indonesia (Walhi) stated that the province of East Java is under the threat of ecological disaster. Walhi asserted that the province is surrounded by large mining areas that could damage the environment.
"The northern part of East Java is blocked by oil and gas block, the southern part blocked by iron mining areas, while the [province's] mountain belt will soon be blocked by geothermal [mine], it is very concerning," said Ony Mahardika, Director of the East Java Walhi on Friday, April 17, 2015.
Extensive mining activities are also predicted to be the main cause of 2,000 hectares land conversion every year. "[Walhi] predicted that in 2025 the environmental crisis will be apparent, similar to what have been informed by the United Nations, later on, as much as 60 percent of the world will experience water crisis," Ony said. Ony suggested the government to stop any investment that could lead to environmental damages. In addition, the government must also promote local values that focus on environmental protection.
Dewi J. Putriatni, Head of the East Java Energy and Mineral Resources Office admitted that increasing mining activities has led to environmental damages. Dewi asserted that such condition occurs because of the issuance of mining licenses by regional governments.
