Challenges on Water Footprint (WF) Accounting of Batik Production: A Reflection from the Study on Batik SMEs in Jarum Village, Klaten Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesian batik has been a cultural product for a hundred years. Its recognition as an intangible heritage has led its production to bring benefits in economic terms. However, there are environmental problems indicated by its production, and one of which is the water use. It is common to find information regarding the pollution caused by batik production. However, studies on water footprint of batik could bring insight that batik problem in relation to water doesn’t limit solely to pollution, but also to the huge volume of water consumed during batik production. In this understanding, the WF approach, both consumptive and degradative water use, is important. Although studies on batik WF have been conducted, it is still limited. This paper discusses the challenges faced in exploring batik WF based on field experience. An understanding of batik itself and batik SME characteristics are required because they are closely related to the WF of the process. Finally, this paper explains the conceptual and technical challenges that will be faced during the study of batik WF.