Building a New Future: Indonesia’s Construction of Nusantara Marks Urgent Efforts to Address Climate Change

The construction of Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital city, is currently underway. With an estimated cost of $35 billion, the project is expected to be completed by 2045. The decision to move the capital from Jakarta stems from the threat of sinking due to rising sea levels caused by climate change.

Jakarta, located on the northwest coast of Java at the mouth of the Ciliwung river, is both Indonesia’s capital and its largest city. It has a population of around 10.6 million people and 30 million in the metropolitan area. However, with 40% of the area already below sea level, Jakarta faces significant challenges related to sinking land and flooding.

The Indonesian government plans to relocate its capital to Nusantara, a new city being constructed on the eastern coast of Borneo, approximately 870 miles north of Jakarta. While completion is set for 2045, around 6,000 government workers are expected to move there in time for the next president’s inauguration in October. This move highlights the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on urban areas globally.

While other countries have previously moved their capitals due to various reasons such as political instability or resource availability, Indonesia’s decision to relocate its capital due to climate change sets it apart. The construction of Nusantara serves as a reminder that rising sea levels pose a significant threat not only to coastal cities but also to entire nations and their economies.

The relocation process will undoubtedly bring challenges and disruption for those involved; however, it also presents an opportunity for Indonesia to build a more sustainable future that takes into account environmental concerns and mitigates against future threats posed by climate change.

In conclusion, Nusantara’s construction marks a significant milestone in Indonesia’s efforts to address climate change and ensure its long-term survival as a nation. While moving a country’s capital is no easy feat, this decision underscores how critical it is that we take action against climate change today if we want a better tomorrow for all citizens around the world.