The issuance of an Environmental Permit (EP) for the development of a cement factory and the mining of limestones and clay stones in Pati District has threatened the environment and livelihood of farmers in 11 villages in the district. Despite people’s protests against the permit, Pati’s Regent stands firmly by not revoking the permit, which signals the continuation of the development of the cement factory. For that reason, farmers struggle to defend their rights to food and environment through litigation and non-litigation channels. Drawing upon in-depth interviews, observations, focus group discussions, and document analysis, the researchers found that the issuance of the EP will degrade the environment quality in these villages, decrease the amount and size of arable lands, and disrupt the farmers’ traditional cultural activities and rituals. The development of the cement factory will also be affecting locals’ right to food in Tambakromo sub-districts. Moreover, the disappearance of springs will affect agricultural irrigation, and access to drinking water and other household needs. Therefore, the extension permit of the cement project development must be stopped.
Download
Authors: Siti Rakhma Mary Herwati, Etik Oktaviani, Donny Danardono
Topics: Environmental Rights
