Return of sea sand exports sparks controversy in Indonesia

While miners welcomed the decision, environmentalists have slammed the policy, warning that it will lead to an increase in sand extraction, which they say will be detrimental to coastal dwellers dependent on ocean ecosystems. — Reuters

JAKARTA: The government lifted a ban this month on the export of dredged sand that had been in place for more than 20 years, in a move it claims will bring in badly needed revenue but that activists say will further degrade the country’s vital marine ecosystems.

The regulation was signed by President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo on May 15, and took effect on the same date.