Climate Rescue Station in Borobudur: The Real Rescuer

I am standing in front of the 12 meter diameter earth dome, using electricity generated from clean renewable energy, the lights inside help creates a grand and cool nuance. It’s never before crossed my mind how this giant globe platform moved around from one country to another.  Until eventually, it was built here in Lumbini park, side by side with Borobur temple, a World Heritage Site.  Now, the Climate Rescue Station is ready for the Clean Energy for Borobudur campaign.

Borobudur, the world’s biggest Buddhist monument, was built in the 9th century.  It is Indonesia’s leading tourist attraction.  Built as a shrine, it teaches the themes of human suffering, reincarnation and enlightenment. Today, it is a symbol for enlightenment not only for Indonesians, but also for people around the world.  Greenpeace is providing solar-powered lighting around the temple complex to show that renewable energy is not only possible, but  a viable alternative to meet Indonesia’s energy needs.

Let me share briefly about the history of this monumental station. In 2008, the Climate Rescue Station was introduced in a place which was known as the heart of coal mining in Europe : “Black Triangle,  which spreads over Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic. The station was initially was set up at the edge of a huge mining area, in the field of local farmers who do not want their ruined by nearby coal extraction.

After that starting point, the Climate Rescue Station traveled from country to country bringing public attention to climate change issues. Now Climate Rescue Station is in Indonesia to emphasise our message that accessible renewable energy is a key part of the answer to climate change, the greatest challenge for the planet and for all mankind in the 21st century.

As the day slowly passes, dedicated volunteers clean-up the Climate Rescue Station, hanging a photo exhibition. Standing like a giant stage, people are attracted to it. Various activities take place in the venue, including a photo exhibition focusing on the theme: Impact of Climate Change & Renewable Energy. We also host a photography class and a batik course.

For this project, we are also working closely with the Nationwide Alliance of Indigenous People (AMAN) Renewable energy is often a particularly good solution for indigenous communities in remote areas.  Several already use microhydro power successfully.

Hydropower has been used in Indonesia for some time already. Indigenous communities such as in Kasepuhan Ciptagelar, West Java, and in Meratus, South Borneo, and many more use the river to power microhydro technology.

We hope this work inspires people both inside Indonesia and world-wide to join the energy revolution.