Jakarta and other cities across Indonesia often top the list of the world’s most polluted cities. According to IQAir, the air quality index (AQI) in the capital consistently falls into the unhealthy category, with levels frequently exceeding 100. In recent months, the AQI has hit record highs, further exacerbating health concerns.

The World Health Organization (WHO) advises that for air to be considered healthy, the annual exposure to PM2.5 should be below 5 µg/m³, or an AQI of 0-50. However, recent studies show that Jakarta’s PM2.5 levels often exceed 40 µg/m³, highlighting the severity of the pollution crisis.

One of the most severe consequences of this air pollution is the dramatic increase in respiratory infections. The Ministry of Health reports that the number of patients suffering from respiratory tract infections has surged to 200,000 cases per month, up from 50,000 cases per month. Hospitals in major cities are reporting a strain on resources as they struggle to cope with the influx of patients.

Despite various government efforts—ranging from weather modification and emission testing to plans for shutting down several coal-fired power plants—the quality of our air remains dismal, and the skies stay far from blue. Recent policy changes have aimed to reduce vehicle emissions, yet the impact has been minimal so far.

In response to this critical issue, Biru has partnered with Corkcicle and LindungiHutan in a collaborative effort to help “blue” the skies of Indonesia. With every purchase of the “Birukan Lagi Langit Indonesia” Corkcicle series, a Trembesi tree will be planted in Cisarua, West Bandung Regency. This initiative not only aims to improve air quality but also raises awareness about the urgent need for environmental action.

Let’s blue the skies of Indonesia. Together with Biru.