Environmental Impact Assessment and Cement Plant Development in Wonogiri Under Scrutiny

The plan to build a cement factory in Pracimantoro District, Wonogiri Regency, Central Java, has drawn scrutiny from the local community. The concern was voiced by students from Gadjah Mada University (UGM) alongside a forum of Student Executive Boards (BEM) from several universities in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, who staged a peaceful protest in the Gejayan intersection area of Yogyakarta. One of the key issues highlighted by the protesters is the alleged involvement of several academics in the preparation or licensing process of the project’s Environmental Impact Analysis (AMDAL). The protesters demanded that the AMDAL process be conducted transparently, independently, and be academically and legally accountable. “The environmental study process must be carried out objectively and must not be influenced by certain interests,” said UGM student Rohman. The students also condemned the cement factory development plan, claiming that certain academic individuals are compromising scientific integrity to provide false legitimacy for the living space. “Reject all AMDALs in mining and industry,” he stated. The protesters also urged the government and relevant parties to disclose information regarding the cement factory construction licensing process, including the environmental documents that form the basis for decision-making. The crowd believes that information transparency is crucial to ensure the public can understand the potential impacts of the project and provide input into the decision-making process. Beyond the AMDAL issue, the protest also addressed environmental protection and the rights of communities in the areas affected by the development. The protesters demanded that every industrial development plan consider the environmental carrying capacity and the interests of the local community.