The water use for batik production by batik SMEs in Jarum Village, Klaten Regency, Indonesia: What are the key factors?

Abstract

The Indonesian batik is a potential product to support the economy of Indonesia. In spite of its potential in supporting the economy of Indonesia, the water pollution caused by batik production by Small & Mediuam Enterprises (SMEs) needs to be addressed, as it leads to water scarcity since the batik production tends to consume a huge quantity of water. This research was conducted to identify key factors that influence water use for batik production among batik craftsmen, and explain those factors using the concept of circular economy. This study was conducted using qualitative method through focus group discussion (FGD) and in-depth interview as data collection strategies and quantitative data collected as secondary data. Our study found that some practices of the batik craftsmen have shown to fit to the circular cycle, although the dischargement of wastewater into waterways still fits to the linear model. Using secondary data, the direct water use for batik production were varies from 3.33 L/pc to 235 L/pc, depending on the craftsmen. If water footprint approach is to be used, the water use will be much higher. Finally, four key factors affecting the water use are discussed in this study and efforts that can be proposed to reduce the ratio water/product as well as maintaining water as a resource, as indicated by circular economy.