A review of particulate matter (PM) in Indonesia: trends, health impact, challenges, and options

Abstract This study reviews particulate matter (PM) research in Indonesia, focusing on current
trends, health impacts, challenges, and future research
directions. As the largest archipelago country, Indonesia faces severe pollution annually due to rapid
urbanization, industrial activities, vehicle emissions,
and forest fires. PM levels often exceed WHO and
NAAQS standards, especially in urban areas and during forest fire seasons, posing significant health risks
to vulnerable populations. Most PM studies have
been conducted in major cities, primarily concentrated on Java Island. While there are several studies
in Sumatra and Borneo, they commonly focus on theeffects of peatland fires, and research in the eastern
part of Indonesia remains limited. Substantial gaps in
PM studies have been highlighted, including limited
monitoring infrastructure, technology, data inconsistencies, and socio-economic challenges. Recent
studies emphasize the need for more research on sizesegregated PM, including ultrafine particles (UFPs),
to fully understand their behavior in the atmosphere,
sources, distribution, and health impacts. Chemical analysis and source apportionment studies are
also crucial but currently limited due to equipment
and analytical challenges. To improve PM management, the study proposes strategic options, including adopting advanced monitoring technologies along
with low-cost samplers, increasing funding and technical training, enhancing coordination among stakeholders, and fostering international collaboration.
Furthermore, public awareness campaigns and community-based monitoring are essential for effective
air quality management.