Jakarta (ANTARA) - Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya outlined various synergistic actions that Indonesia had taken to protect and manage groundwater sustainably, including by implementing the smart water management concept, at the UN Water Summit on Groundwater.

Indonesia realizes the importance of groundwater that is discussed as an integral part of other components and the public's relevancy with synergistic efforts, the minister noted through a statement on Thursday.

These efforts include synergy between groundwater and surface water for water resource management and smart water management system (SWMS) concept implementation to handle groundwater-related problems now and in the future, she remarked.

Projects' formulation and policies, with the Strategic Environmental Assessment (KLHS) instrument and supporting power, emphasizes the consideration of water resources and availability for the construction plan as an indicator.

Other actions comprise synergy of groundwater with the environment, technology, and people's relevancy and activities specifically pertaining to efficient water usage, implementation of water balance and plant water requirements' practice for climate adaptation.

At the UN Water Summit on Groundwater 2022 in Paris, France, on Wednesday, Nurbaya reiterated the importance of protecting the quality and quantity of groundwater to ensure its usage sustainably and protecting water sources.

In addition, she noted that improvement in institutional capacity and synergy between related ministries, regional governments, and the public were necessary steps.

Beyond highlighting good groundwater management practices in Indonesia, the Indonesian delegation also promoted Indonesia's role as the host of the 10th World Water Forum in 2024 themed "Water for Shared Prosperity."

According to the official website, the UN Water Summit on Groundwater 2022 aims to highlight groundwater at the highest international level.

The event was held on December 7-8 at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris in hybrid format.

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Translator: Prisca T V, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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