This project is implemented by Yayasan Kopernik on behalf of our partner who provided grant funding for this project.
With support from Traveloka, Kopernik is distributing N95 masks and air purifiers for schools and households in West and Central Kalimantan impacted by toxic haze.
We will also support community fire fighting efforts to prevent fires igniting and spreading further.
Project Type
- Technology Distribution
- Emergency Response
Partners
THE PROBLEM
Hundreds of thousands of Families in Sumatra and Kalimantan are currently breathing toxic air caused by forest fires. The fires typically occur as a result of slash-and-burn practices to clear land for plantations. As on 22 September 2019, the National Disaster Management Agency for Disaster Management (BNBP) reported 558 hotspot points with a high category in West and Central Kalimantan.
Breathing the toxic air puts people in Sumatra and Kalimantan at high risk of developing Acute Respiratory Syndrome (ISPA), which is an infection caused by inhaling unsafe levels of particulate matter in the air. The number of Acute Respiratory Syndrome cases in West Kalimantan reached more than 15,000 cases in the month of July, according to data from the Health Ministry.
As experts predict a delayed rainy season, the thick and dangerous haze is likely to linger, putting lives in danger.
THE SOLUTION
Together with our local partners, Ranu Welum and Borneo Nature Foundation in Central Kalimantan, we will distribute N95 masks as well as air purifiers comprising of air filters and oxycans. There will be two types of masks distributed: adult and children’s masks. The support will be delivered to affected families in 5 (five) regencies; Palangka Raya, Barito Timur, Pulang Pisau, Barito Selatan, and Kotawaringin Timur. We will distribute 50 units of AiRazor AR-100 air purifier which is designed for the removal of PM2.5, VOCs, odours and airborne microorganisms in larger indoor spaces of up to 45 square metres.
To address the problem at its source, we will also support a team of community firefighters by providing them with safety boots, appropriate clothing, pumps, fire hoses, headlamps, mats, boat rental, as well as other equipment they need. The team will work in and around the Sebangau Forest in Central Kalimantan to prevent fires in a critical orangutan habitat.
THE EXPECTED IMPACT
Through the distribution of N95 masks and shelter kits, we aim to protect the respiratory health of affected people during the haze season. Support provided to the community fire fighting team is expected to prevent fires spreading across larger areas.
This project is implemented by Yayasan Kopernik on behalf of our partner who provided grant funding for this project.
