Empatika supported the planned Jakarta Integrated Low Emissions Zone with an inclusive needs and equity assessment, in collaboration with the Jakarta Government, Breathe Cities and a variety of other partners and stakeholders. Working with key stakeholders and community members, Empatika’s role particularly focused on understanding air pollution impacts on vulnerable groups as well as day-to-day commutes, livelihoods, and the social activities of people in the proposed zones. This included identifying challenges and benefits on mobility and livelihoods, as well as socio-economic opportunities and what type of engagement local communities want.

As part of this project, we also facilitated 1-day Equity Assessment capacity building training for key stakeholders. This training also covered the benefits of equity for effective and inclusive policy planning and implementation, as well as how equity assessments can contribute to positive community engagement.

Some of the key insights included:

• People perceive pollution through direct bodily experience. Pollution feels real when it can be seen, smelled, or felt.

• Most participants shared that no one had ever explained what pollution is, how it affects the body, or why interventions such as a low emissions zone are necessary.

• Many people see the planned low emissions zone not as an environmental or health initiative, but first as an economic intervention that could disrupt already precarious routines. Participants were not opposed to clean air initiatives, but would like solutions that fit the realities of their work.

• Participants shared a strong preference for a phased approach to any low emissions zone consisting of sosialisasi (socialization/outreach), uji coba (trialling), penegakan (enforcement/fines).

• Mobility-based workers described fairness relating to stability, emphasizing the importance of clear rules that are explained in advance, predictable income, and protection from sudden disruptions.

• Mothers and older residents described fairness in terms of safety and being treated well – being able to cross streets without rushing, finding shade from the heat, and navigating sidewalks without obstacles.