We are pleased to provide an update on the fundamental research project titled “Carbon Capture and Storage Strategy: Opportunities and Prospects in the Nusantara Capital City for Achieving Smart City,” led by Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati. The research activities were conducted from October 1 to 6, 2024, in East Kalimantan.
The project followed several crucial steps. First, in-depth interviews were carried out both online and on-site with key representatives from the Authority of the New Capital (OIKN) in Balikpapan. These included discussions with the Deputy for Planning and Land Affairs, the Deputy for Social, Cultural, and Community Empowerment, as well as the Director of Forest Area and Water Resources Development.
Field observations were then conducted at various locations within the Core Government Area (KIPP), with support from the OIKN team and the Ministry of Public Works and Housing Task Force for IKN. Key sites visited included the Nusantara Technology House, Plaza Ceremony, Kusuma Bangsa Park, the ASN Apartments, the Detached Official Residences for Ministers, Wanagama Forest, and the Tropical Rainforest Miniature. Additionally, drone-assisted data collection was performed, supported by the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) of Penajam Paser Utara Regency.
Primary data collection formed an essential part of the activities, including vegetation measurements and the collection of 12 soil samples, which will undergo laboratory testing. Furthermore, data was gathered from various government agencies in the Penajam Paser Utara Regency and Kutai Kartanegara Regency.
The research team for this activity included:
- Team Leader: Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati
- Team Members: Prof. Dr. Eko Haryono and Dr. Andung Bayu Sekaranom
- Partner Researchers: Prof. Yves Boquet from the University of Bourgogne and Prof. Jon Lovett from the University of Leeds
- Research Assistants: Hafidz Wibisono, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., Amandita ‘Ainur Rohmah, S.Si., M.Sc., Nurina Aulia Haris, M.A., Hanindha Pradipa, S.Si., M.Env., and Vanisa Anggreta Sari, S.S.