Indonesia Tests Dry Ice Technology to Combat Haze from Forest Fires

The National Disaster Management Agency of Indonesia (BNPB) is currently testing the use of dry ice to mitigate haze resulting from land and forest fires (karhutla) in South Sumatra. This innovative approach aims to address the persistent air quality issues caused by these fires, particularly during the dry season when haze levels can become dangerously high.

BNPB's Chief, Lieutenant General TNI Kristomei Sianturi, confirmed that the technology has undergone two trial runs in South Sumatra. The agency is continuing to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing haze and considering its application in other regions facing similar challenges. Kristomei emphasized the need for collective action from various stakeholders, including local and central governments, communities, and private companies.

“Kristomei Sianturi said that if the technology is considered effective, cost-efficient, and applicable throughout Indonesia, it could be implemented more widely.”Kristomei Sianturi, Chief of BNPB

The use of dry ice is part of a weather modification operation (Operasi Modifikasi Cuaca, OMC) designed to disrupt atmospheric conditions that trap smoke and pollutants near the surface. Specifically, the dry ice is intended to weaken temperature inversion layers that prevent vertical air movement, which can exacerbate haze conditions. According to Thomas Nifinluri, Director of Forest Fire Control at BNPB, the goal is to alter atmospheric temperatures to improve air circulation and reduce smoke concentration.

During the initial operation, BNPB deployed dry ice in sorties over Palembang, with a total of 2.4 tons of dry ice spread in three flights. Subsequent flights are planned, contingent on weather conditions. Initial reports indicated an improvement in visibility, which increased from around 1,000 meters to between 1,500 and 2,800 meters following the dry ice application. This enhancement is crucial for ensuring safe flight operations in affected areas.

The dry ice used in these operations is approximately three millimeters in size and has a temperature of about -75 degrees Celsius. This method is considered more suitable for current atmospheric conditions compared to traditional techniques that rely on the presence of clouds, such as sodium chloride (NaCl) seeding.

“Thomas Nifinluri explained that through OMC using dry ice, they are trying to influence atmospheric conditions to weaken the inversion layer and improve air movement.”Thomas Nifinluri, Director of Forest Fire Control at BNPB

BNPB is monitoring the situation closely, adapting the operation to atmospheric dynamics. If conditions allow for cloud growth, the dry ice seeding may be combined with salt to further support rain formation. This adaptive approach underscores the complexities of managing air quality during the dry season, particularly in regions with extensive peatland and mineral land that contribute significantly to haze.

BNPB continues to emphasize the importance of community involvement and inter-agency cooperation in addressing the root causes of karhutla and improving air quality for Indonesians.