More on air pollution<\/p>\n
With regard to improving Jakarta's air quality, it is fairly
\nobvious that requiring vehicles to be emission tested or
\nmandating maintenance programs for motor vehicles is cumbersome,
\ndifficult to enforce, and likely to be circumvented.<\/p>\n
Mr. F. Fudyanto Suradibroto's letter (The Jakarta Post, June
\n20 1996) was exactly to the point. Natural gas is a clean-burning
\nfuel and is abundant in Indonesia. The cost of converting
\nexisting gas stations and vehicles to natural gas is significant
\nbut because of Indonesia's current petroleum position it would be
\neconomically desirable. Most countries are locked into using
\ngasoline for cars and have little economic incentive to change.
\nHowever, because of its huge natural gas reserves, Indonesia has
\na strong incentive to convert.<\/p>\n
It is known within the oil industry that Indonesia will soon
\nbe in danger of becoming an oil importer rather than an exporter.
\nBecause oil is a valuable source of foreign currency and also
\neasier to ship overseas than gas, it is sensible to promote the
\nuse of gas domestically and save oil for exporting.<\/p>\n
Once the current large gas pipeline and gas field projects are
\non line and delivery systems are complete, there will be pressure
\nto convert power plants and other large energy users to natural
\ngas. Since automobiles are a major user of oil, at some point
\nthis pressure would extend to converting motor vehicle fuels as
\nwell.<\/p>\n
Gas stations could convert to natural gas in a phased
\ntransition and then car owners and manufacturers would be forced
\nto convert as well. Conversion kits are available for almost any
\nmake of car. This would radically reduce the polluting emissions
\nfrom cars, rapidly reduce air pollutant levels and benefit the
\neconomy as well. At some point in the future Jakarta may not
\nonly have wholesome, pleasant air, but also be under economic and
\nenvironmental pressure to make further changes. Unfortunately for
\nus that looks to be at least 10 years in the future.<\/p>\n
MARCUS L. CARY
\n Jakarta<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/more-on-air-pollution-1447893297",
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"sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
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