"When it rains, I don't let my grandchildren play outside. My neighbors have gotten skin diseases, which scares me. Since the effects are hard to visibly see, it is difficult to seek compensation. There should be a survey to examine whether there is any air pollution caused by the project, and the effects on crops and health should be verified."
Since LNG production began in 2015 in Uso Village, Central Sulawesi, the coastal sea area within one kilometer of the Donggi-Senoro LNG project site has been designated a no-entry zone. This restriction, combined with the pervasive lights from the project site, has severely impacted local fishing activities. Some fishing communities now face significantly higher fuel costs and travel much longer distances to reach their fishing grounds, leading to a dramatic decrease in their net profits.
The adverse effects of the LNG project extend beyond fishing. Local farmers in Uso Village, who previously relied on crops such as coconuts, bananas, chili peppers, and corn, are experiencing reduced harvests and smaller fruit sizes. These negative impacts on agriculture are compounded by the environmental strain caused by the LNG facility, further diminishing the livelihoods of the community.
Initially, the project promised development and improved living standards for Uso Village, comparable to those in North America. However, the reality has been starkly different, with locals feeling neglected and unfulfilled by the promises made – even with wishing to do something about the issue.
