The quest for net-zero emissions in urban environments is becoming increasingly critical, especially in rapidly growing cities like Jakarta. A recent study published in ‘Resilient Cities and Structures’ delves into the building emissions landscape of Jakarta, revealing insights that could significantly influence the construction sector. The research, led by Hanif Hanif from the Department of Building, Architecture, and Town Planning at the Université libre de Bruxelles, offers a comprehensive analysis of both embodied and operational emissions from 2010 to 2022.
Jakarta’s building stock has seen notable changes over the past decade, with a marked increase in the number of apartments, malls, and offices. “Our findings indicate that operational emissions have significantly decreased following the introduction of green building regulations in 2015,” Hanif stated. This shift highlights the potential for regulatory frameworks to drive more sustainable construction practices. However, despite these advancements, landed houses continue to pose a significant challenge, contributing to over 40% of embodied emissions and nearly 75% of operational emissions in the city.
The study’s projections are striking. Jakarta’s building floor stock, which was 167 square kilometers in 2010, is expected to grow to 268 square kilometers by 2050. This growth trajectory raises important questions about the sustainability of construction practices in the face of increasing demand for housing. “With around 80% of the population preferring to live in landed houses, their impact on emissions remains substantial,” Hanif noted, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions in this sector.
The implications of this research extend beyond environmental concerns; they present a commercial opportunity for construction firms. As stricter regulations and carbon offset initiatives are anticipated, companies that prioritize sustainable building practices could gain a competitive edge. The study forecasts that, without consistent enforcement of these regulations, building emissions could revert to 2010 levels by 2050. This potential regression underscores the importance of ongoing investment in sustainable technologies and methods.
As the construction industry grapples with the dual challenges of meeting housing demands and reducing emissions, the insights from Hanif’s research may serve as a catalyst for change. The need for continuous regulatory advancements and innovative building practices is clear, positioning sustainability not just as an obligation, but as a strategic business advantage.
For those interested in the full details of this pivotal study, it can be accessed through the publication ‘Resilient Cities and Structures’. To learn more about Hanif Hanif’s work, visit the Department of Building, Architecture, and Town Planning at the Université libre de Bruxelles.
