Comparison of air pollution before, during, and after restrictions on the activities of residents to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 in Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

The study aimed to compare air pollution levels in Jakarta, Indonesia before, during, and after the implementation of COVID-19-related restrictions on residents' activities. Data on air quality indicators such as PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide were collected and analyzed. The findings revealed significant variations in air pollution levels in response to the restrictions. Before the restrictions, air pollution levels were notably higher, attributed to increased industrial and vehicular activities. During the restrictions, there was a substantial decline in air pollution levels as a result of reduced human activities and transportation. After the restrictions were eased, air pollution levels began to rise again, albeit not reaching the same high levels as before. The study provides valuable insights into the impact of human activities on air quality and emphasizes the potential benefits of implementing policies to reduce air pollution. The findings contribute to the understanding of the environmental consequences of societal changes during the COVID-19 pandemic and have implications for future urban planning and air quality management in Jakarta.