Investigating the chemical composition of smoke from domestic waste burning in Indonesia is crucial due to the escalating air pollution caused by rapid urbanisation and population growth, leading to uncontrolled burning practices. This research is prompted by the severe public health impacts, with 270,000 premature adult mortalities yearly from exposure to pollutants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals, as well as environmental consequences like soil degradation and water contamination.

Identifying the specific chemical characteristics of waste burning smoke is essential for formulating effective regulations, pollution control measures, and sustainable waste management practices, aligning with the YESI Themes of promoting environmental sustainability and public well-being.

Aims and Objectives

These international exchange visits aim to establish a new research collaboration between the Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), Indonesia, and the University of York (UoY), United Kingdom. The collaboration focus on developing a research plan to investigate the impacts of waste burning on indoor and outdoor air quality in residential urban areas of Indonesia.

During the visits, collaborators plan to conduct site visits to potential study locations and research laboratories, engaging in discussions to develop the research plan.

Additionally, the collaboration facilitates knowledge exchange through research seminars delivered by the YESI International Fellows for staff and students at both institutions. The Fellows plan to meet with atmospheric chemistry, environmental studies, social sciences, and engineering experts to gain insights and feedback for refining the research proposal. Ultimately, these exchange visits promote multidisciplinary and international research capacities for the Fellows and their respective institutions.

Outputs

YESI International Fellows seminar: Addressing Indonesia’s Air Quality Crisis: Peatland Fires, Urban Pollution, and Emerging Threats