The widely accepted solution to address surface mining’s environmental dangers is ecological rehabilitation, the process of landscape transformation described by Jaidun. Indonesian law dictates that coal companies must set aside resources to pay for rehabilitation before mining. Companies are then required to conduct progressive rehabilitation in mining concession areas where operations are complete.
However, the law’s language can lead to multiple interpretations and confusion. The directive requiring mining companies to rehabilitate the land to “rona awal” or the “original condition,” often causes confusion among rehabilitation workers and local community members about what this terminology means.