Inequality in Public Decision Making Process: Case Studies of Cement Factories in Central Java, Indonesia

Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang - Indonesia

^* Corresponding author sudhartophadi@yahoo.co.id

Abstract

North Kendeng mountain in Central Java is rich in limestone potentially utilized for cement and other uses. It is also a storage of ground water currently being utilized for potable water and rice field's irrigation. Conflict on North Kendeng Mountain revolves around the utilization of limestone for mining or for conservation. This paper reviews the process of decision making through EIA studies done and spatial planning. The type of research is descriptive analysis. The data gathered through document and content analysis, physical and social observation and informal interview with relevant interests. The data obtained was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. In the District of Sukolilo, Pati Regency, EIA as basis for issuing environmental permit for cement factory was considered did not address the critical issue regarding the number of spring water potentially affected by Cement Factory activities. While the decision on determining KBAK (natural landscape of karst) Sukolilo need to be conserved created controversy. It is the fact that the KBAK area become narrowed than the previous stipulation. In addition, the area determined as non-KBAK at Tambakromo-Kayen, utilized for mining, has similar characteristics of the area determined as KBAK. To ensure the sustainability of utilization and management of North Kendeng Mountain, it is required a transparence, participative and objective decision making process.