InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA - Behind its role as a key commodity supporting Indonesia's economy, palm oil (Elaeis guineensis) holds other potential that is often overlooked. As a plant synonymous with palm oil, who would have thought that this tree could also serve as an aesthetic element to beautify city streets? This potential not only enhances the environment but also combines ecological benefits with economic value.
Looking at the lush, towering palm oil leaves, it is hard not to be captivated by the tropical impression they provide. With neatly arranged fronds, this tree brings a refreshing green ambiance that soothes the eyes and creates a cool atmosphere along the streets. Moreover, its ability to thrive in various weather conditions makes palm oil a resilient choice for ornamental plants. Medians, sidewalks, and other public areas can utilize palm oil as a greening element that requires minimal maintenance.
Not only does palm oil beautify the streets, but it also provides significant ecological benefits. Its broad canopy can absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, helping to improve air quality in urban areas. Additionally, this tree can lower ambient temperatures through the shade it provides. Equally important, the robust root system of palm oil can prevent soil erosion, making it a solution for roads in landslide-prone areas.
As noted in the history of palm oil in Indonesia by the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), the uniqueness of palm oil as a street decoration is not a new concept. Its history in Indonesia began in 1848 when four palm oil seeds were brought by Dr. D. T. Pryce from Africa. The seeds were planted in the Bogor Botanical Gardens, thrived, and produced their first fruit in 1853. From there, palm oil seeds spread to various regions, including Sumatra, and were once used as ornamental plants along the roads.
However, over time, the focus of palm oil utilization shifted to industrial commodities. The industrial revolution in Europe increased the demand for oil, prompting the Dutch East Indies government to cultivate palm oil on a large scale. The first planting experiments were conducted in Banyumas, Palembang, and Belitung, although they were not always successful due to weather factors. It was only later that the Deli region in North Sumatra showed great potential with the famous fertile "Deli Dura" palm oil.
According to InfoSAWIT, as quote from the book "Milestones of Change: Through the Palm Oil PIR Building the Nation" by Badrun in 2010, palm oil began to be planted on a commercial scale in Sungai Liput (Aceh) and Pulau Radja (Asahan, North Sumatra) in 1911. The East Coast of Sumatra, especially Deli, became the center of palm oil production under the colonial Dutch government. During the Japanese occupation, due to food needs, 16% of palm oil land was converted to food crops.
In addition to beautifying the streets, palm oil planted as decoration can also provide additional economic benefits. The fruit produced can be utilized by local communities to process into palm oil, organic fertilizer, or even bioenergy fuel. Thus, this plant not only symbolizes beauty but also serves as a means of economic empowerment for local communities.
Despite offering many benefits, the use of palm oil as street decoration is not without challenges. One of the challenges is selecting the right planting locations. Palm oil must be placed in areas that do not obstruct drivers' views to maintain traffic safety. Additionally, regular pruning is necessary to maintain aesthetics and avoid hazards from falling old fronds.
Community support is also key to the success of this project. With active involvement from residents in the care and utilization of palm oil yields, the sustainability of the program can be ensured. Education and training on how to care for the plants and process the harvest will be very beneficial in supporting this initiative.
Reviving palm oil as street decoration is a unique way to connect historical heritage with modern needs. Not only does it meet aesthetic requirements, but this plant also offers practical solutions to environmental and economic issues. With careful planning, palm oil can become an icon of greening that not only beautifies cities but also brings tangible benefits to communities and the environment.
Today, palm oil has become one of the leading commodities that significantly contributes to Indonesia's economy. With foreign exchange earnings reaching a fantastic figure of around Rp 300 trillion, this plant not only serves as a source of state revenue but also as a livelihood for millions of Indonesians.
As the world's largest palm oil producer, Indonesia plays a crucial role in the global market. Palm oil and its derivatives are used in various products, ranging from food and cosmetics to biofuels. The advantages of palm oil as an efficient and versatile material make it a strategic commodity that is hard to replace.
In the domestic context, the palm oil industry has a significant impact on regional economies. In various areas, especially in Sumatra and Kalimantan, palm oil plantations have created extensive job opportunities, from farmers and factory workers to logistics sectors. Moreover, the presence of this industry has also spurred infrastructure development and local economic activities. (T2)