The Need for Green Open Space in Medan City

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 120 views

Analysis of Green Open Space Needs (RTH) in Medan City Area

The Impact of Urbanization on Green Open Space

In the midst of the rapid development of the times, many villages have transformed into cities, and these cities have been transformed into modern or metropolitan cities. One of the impacts of this change is a decrease in the number and quality of public open space, including green open space (RTH). This causes various environmental problems in the city, such as flooding, high air pollution, and increasing criminal acts. The importance of green open space cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.

Medan City: A Growing Metropolis

Medan City, as the capital of North Sumatra Province and Gate in the western part of Indonesia, has experienced a significant population growth. This growth is also accompanied by an increase in the number of vehicles, which are indicators of city development. Based on 2006 data, the total area of green open space in Medan reached 9,865.76 hectares of the total Medan area of 26,510 hectares, or around 37.72%. However, if it refers to the Minister of Home Affairs Instruction No. 14 of 1988, green open space in Medan should reach 40% of the total region, which means there is a need for 10,604 hectares of green open space. In fact, according to Geravkis analysis in 2008, oxygen demand in this city requires an area of 28,003.5 hectares. Thus, it is clear that the city of Medan experienced a significant shortage of green open space.

The Need for Green Open Space in Medan City

The lack of green open space in Medan can be overcome through a tree planting program. To meet the lack of green space needs, 692,303 trees are needed. This planting can involve community participation, where each tree can be planted by 3-4 people assuming the planting distance between trees 5x5 meters. This will not only increase the amount of green open space, but also increase public awareness of the importance of the environment. Community involvement is crucial in addressing the green open space needs in Medan City.

The Benefits of Green Open Space

Green open space has a variety of invaluable benefits for the community and the environment. Some of them include:

Improving Air Quality: Green open space plays an important role in absorbing pollutants and producing oxygen, which is very much needed in a dense urban environment. The air quality in Medan City is a major concern, and green open space can help mitigate this issue.
Flood Control: With the presence of adequate vegetation, water catchment can increase thereby reducing the risk of flooding in residential areas. Flooding is a major problem in Medan City, and green open space can help alleviate this issue.
Recreational Room: RTH provides an area for the community to interact and exercise, which has a positive impact on physical and mental health. The lack of recreational spaces in Medan City is a major concern, and green open space can help address this issue.
Biodiversity: Green open space is also a habitat for various species of flora and fauna, which supports biodiversity in the city. The biodiversity in Medan City is a major concern, and green open space can help mitigate this issue.

Conclusion

The importance of green open space in the city of Medan cannot be underestimated. With the increasing population and urban activity, the need for adequate green open space is more urgent. Through the tree planting program and the active involvement of the community, Medan City can improve the quality of its environment, as well as provide significant benefits for the health and welfare of the population. The existence of green open space is not just a complement to the city, but it becomes a basic need that must be met to create a better environment.

Recommendations

Based on the analysis, the following recommendations are made:

Increase the area of green open space in Medan City: The city should aim to increase the area of green open space to at least 40% of the total region.
Implement a tree planting program: A tree planting program should be implemented to meet the lack of green space needs.
Involve the community in green open space management: The community should be involved in the management of green open space to ensure its sustainability.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of green open space: The effectiveness of green open space should be monitored and evaluated to ensure that it is meeting its intended purposes.

By implementing these recommendations, Medan City can improve the quality of its environment and provide significant benefits for the health and welfare of its population. The importance of green open space in Medan City cannot be overstated, and it is essential that the city prioritizes its development and management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Green Open Space in Medan City

Q: What is green open space?

A: Green open space, also known as RTH (Ruangan Terbuka Hijau), refers to areas of land that are designated for public use and are characterized by the presence of vegetation, such as trees, grass, and other plants. These areas provide a range of benefits, including improved air quality, flood control, recreational spaces, and biodiversity.

Q: Why is green open space important in Medan City?

A: Green open space is essential in Medan City because it helps to mitigate the negative impacts of urbanization, such as air pollution, flooding, and heat island effects. It also provides recreational spaces for the community, supports biodiversity, and improves the overall quality of life.

Q: What are the benefits of green open space in Medan City?

A: The benefits of green open space in Medan City include:

Improved air quality
Flood control
Recreational spaces
Biodiversity
Improved mental and physical health
Increased property values
Reduced urban heat island effects

Q: How can green open space be created in Medan City?

A: Green open space can be created in Medan City through a variety of methods, including:

Tree planting programs
Urban forestry initiatives
Park development
Green roof and wall installations
Community-led initiatives

Q: Who is responsible for managing green open space in Medan City?

A: The management of green open space in Medan City is the responsibility of the local government, in collaboration with community groups and other stakeholders. This includes tasks such as maintenance, upkeep, and development of green open spaces.

Q: How can the community get involved in green open space management in Medan City?

A: The community can get involved in green open space management in Medan City through a variety of means, including:

Volunteering for tree planting and maintenance activities
Participating in community-led initiatives
Providing input and feedback on green open space development and management
Joining community groups and organizations focused on green open space

Q: What are the challenges facing green open space in Medan City?

A: The challenges facing green open space in Medan City include:

Limited funding and resources
Competition for land use and development
Climate change and extreme weather events
Urbanization and population growth
Lack of community engagement and participation

Q: How can green open space be sustained in Medan City?

A: Green open space can be sustained in Medan City through a variety of means, including:

Long-term planning and management
Community engagement and participation
Collaboration with stakeholders and partners
Funding and resource mobilization
Education and awareness-raising

Q: What is the future of green open space in Medan City?

A: The future of green open space in Medan City is bright, with a growing recognition of its importance and benefits. With continued community engagement, collaboration, and investment, green open space can play a vital role in shaping the city's future and improving the quality of life for its residents.