Indonesia is a nation of immense proportions, with over 17,000 islands and a staggering population that exceeds 270 million inhabitants, making it the fourth most populous country in the world. Yogyakarta province, in Java Island, holds particular significance with its rich cultural heritage and a population of 3.7 million inhabitants.

However, alongside the notable political and economic changes in the country in the last decades, Indonesia faces pressing challenges in climate change and sanitation that demand urgent attention. As an example, Java Island – the most populous island in the world – is home to over 140 million people and is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising sea levels pose a significant threat to coastal areas, including densely populated cities that face the risk of increased flooding, coastal erosion, and saltwater intrusion, which can contaminate freshwater sources and compromise the availability of clean drinking water.

Moreover, the country is characterized by a high concentration of active volcanoes, including Mount Merapi, in Yogyakarta Province. Volcanic activities not only pose immediate risks, but also contribute to long-term environmental challenges, as volcanic eruptions can affect air quality and potentially disrupting agriculture and water sources. The impacts of climate change and unsustainable practices also extend to its vital agricultural sector, which supports the livelihoods of millions. Changing rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, and more frequent droughts pose risks to crop production, affecting food security and livelihoods.

Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a comprehensive approach that integrates climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. By prioritizing climate resilience and mitigation, Indonesia can pave the way for a more sustainable and secure future, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of its people in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.

Our methodology was designed to ensure a comprehensive and meticulous approach to the assessment process. To achieve our goals, we developed robust selection criteria to identify the most suitable urban water utility for assessment, considering the unique contextual factors of Indonesia. To ensure the assessment aligns with the local landscape, we adapted sector frameworks and tools, tailoring them to the specific needs and challenges faced by the selected utility. Through initial assessments of climate adaptation and mitigation, we laid the groundwork for deeper analysis: hydraulic modelling, groundwater availability, physical climate risk assessment etc.

Documenting the outcomes of our assessment and providing actionable recommendations was a key milestone in the project, as we aimed to equip the utility with a roadmap for future improvement. Furthermore, we facilitated the dissemination of our findings through industry webinars, fostering knowledge sharing and promoting best practices in climate resilience and mitigation. By enhancing the Client's internal capacity to conduct similar assessments, we seek to catalyze a wider movement towards climate-conscious decision-making within the organization and the sector at large.