An editorial in today's Jakarta Post that I could have written, but didn't because I think my English is better, includes the following points:
- The notion to build a nuclear power station in Java has been declared haram, forbidden in Islamic law, as the potential hazards far outweigh the potential benefits. Muslim clerics particularly doubted the ability of the future project operator to ensure the safety of the plant, "especially the handling of radioactive waste."
- Although nuclear plants can be built to withstand temblors (sic), the public remains unconfident, especially after a recent quake in Japan caused radioactive leaks at a a nuclear plant there. Such a disaster could easily happen in Indonesia, where the safety record is lousy ....
- With corruption so extant in this country, what if some of the money budgeted for safety measures is stolen?
- There are abundant alternative energy sources, some of which are still unexplored.
- To tap these we need investment and to attract investment we need to .... tackle problems in tax, customs and the labour market, as well as reducing the high transaction costs that are a result of inflation.
- Most importantly, we need to launch a campaign for energy conservation.
Hemat energi, hemat biaya.
Save energy, save costs.
Save energy, save costs.
The Post's closing statement is the most categorical of any I can recall.If all our calls and efforts fail, and the current government, with the backing of parliament, goes ahead with its nuclear policy, we will leave it to the people to punish them by voting them out of office.
Further Reading
A recent survey indicates that about two-thirds of Americans would support expanding nuclear power significantly if "effective waste storage" were not an issue. However, fewer than one in three believes nuclear power plant waste can be stored safely, .
Biofuel is not the answer: biofuel from cleared forest land actually outstrips petrol fuel in its carbon dioxide intensity because of the massive loss of carbon dioxide absorption capacity when virgin forest is cut down.
SBY on Corruption
"Corruption eradication must be done now, iy may not be delayed and without exemption. If it is not stopped right now, the corruption will continuously encumber the nation economy and hamper Indonesian people."
Indonesia Corruption Watch - First Crush the Oligarchy
The previous presidents of Indonesia have failed to eradicate corruption, although a lot of regulations have been reviewed and new laws enacted. However, corruption in this country has not been reduced, but has spread further to every level of the government and beyond.
Labels: biofuels, Indonesia. Environment, nuclear power
