The Jakarta Post 26 Dec 08;
On Wednesday, the central government and environmentalists launched the 2009 Green Hope program, aiming to mobilize public participation in global conservation efforts.
The national program will include a yearlong calendar of environmental activities involving residents.
"We have regular car restriction days in some main thoroughfares, but we need more activities that also involve non-governmental institutions as organizers," Jakarta Environment Management Board (BPLHD) chairman Budirama Natakusumah said.
"Environmental programs are a big issue in the country and the government cannot work on them alone."
Launched at the State Ministry for the Environment in Jakarta, 2009 Green Hope is a nationwide campaign to educate people about environmental issues.
The opening activity is scheduled for Dec. 28 at the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle, Central Jakarta, which will include a fun bike program, a photo exhibition on environmental issues, and performances.
The projects sponsors include World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Indonesia, Civil Society Forum, Science Esthetic Technology, Bike to Work and Pelangi Indonesia Foundation.
Hendry Bastaman, deputy minister of communication and people's empowerment said his office was still looking for the most effective way to communicate with the general public regarding environmental issues.
"We know it is not easy for people to digest environmental issues. We have tried for years. We are sure Green Hope will be effective in promoting the importance of protecting our natural world," Hendry said.
Both the government and activists in Jakarta say water shortages, lack of water catchment areas, pollution and environmental damage will remain serious problems next year.
"Jakartans are still smoking in forbidden places and disposing of garbage anywhere they please. They still waste water, electricity and fuel," Budirama said.
"Most residents are somehow reluctant to make the city cleaner and greener, even though they know and aware about it."
According to Elshinta of WWF, people were now trying to survive in this world by damaging the environment. Many environmental problems were man-made, she said.
"Ready or not people have to face water shortages, land shortages, deforestation and climate change as consequences.
"We have to do something because the condition of our environment is getting worse. Do something, because the earth can not wait," she said.
