Paper short abstract:

Implementing a low-emission zone policy in a Global South city such as Jakarta may uniquely impact locals disproportionately. To ensure equitable policies, integrating Social and Environmental Justice is crucial, emphasizing the adaptation of global solutions for sustainable urban development.

Paper long abstract:

The introduction of Jakarta's Low Emission Zone (LEZ), inspired by Global North practices, reveals challenges in applying environmental policies in diverse urban settings. Despite the success of LEZs in reducing air pollution in cities like Stockholm and London, Jakarta's unique dynamics and inadequate transport systems pose significant hurdles, challenging the viability of universal solutions. The LEZ, particularly implemented in Kota Tua, Jakarta, a heritage yet highly mobilised area, may disproportionately affect street vendors, local communities, motorbike users, and residents without access to public transport.

Incorporating Environmental Justice (EJ) into the LEZ framework is vital, covering Distributional, Procedural, and Recognitional Justice. Disparities in air pollution's impact on locals and tourists prompt questions about equitable distribution. The EJ framework aligns with Fraser's social justice model, including Redistribution, Representation, and Recognition for those affected by development. Integrating Socio-Environmental Justice into the LEZ policy is critical for addressing risk and benefit disparities. The lens of socio-environmental justice underscores the need to recognize the most vulnerable groups in policy planning. Parity of participation may fall short for vulnerable communities, with ongoing Recognitional Justice issues for local dwellers in ex-colonial zones.

Jakarta's socio-economic diversity and limited resources complicate LEZ implementation. Challenges may not solely lie in policy execution but in the LEZ framework itself, designed for Global North settings. This analysis stresses the importance of adapting environmental policies like LEZs to local contexts, ensuring they meet diverse population needs for sustainable urban development and climate resilience.