WATER POLLUTION IN YOGYAKARTA 1926–1942

Water pollution in Yogyakarta has a long history dating back to the colonial era in 1926. This paper addresses the reasons why water pollution occurred in Yogyakarta from 1926 to 1942. In general, there are two factors influencing water pollution, i.e. natural and human. Using a historical research method, this study aims to examine water pollution in Yogyakarta, so that the government and the community can find the best solutions. Sources include collections from Algemeen Handelsblad voor Nederlandsch-Indie, De Locomotief, De Nieuwe Vorstenlanden, De Preanger Bode, and contemporary newspapers. Findings reveal that water pollution began to emerge as the population density in Yogyakarta was increasing. The arrival of Dutch and Eastern foreigners increased the population, leading to the pollution of clean water. The desire to fulfill human needs caused the exploitation of natural resources, particularly water and human resources, in Yogyakarta.