Environmental impact assessment of nickel extraction activities in Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesia is one of the world's largest nickel-producing countries and plays a vital role in the global energy transition. However, the nickel mining process results in significant environmental impacts such as deforestation, pollution and ecosystem degradation, especially in the North Maluku region. This study aims to assess the environmental impacts of nickel mining activities as well as challenges in management at the local level. The methodology used is a systematic literature review with a bibliometric approach conducted through Scopus database, and then analyzed using RStudio and Vosviewer. Findings show that scientific attention to the issue has increased since 2019, with a shift in focus from merely descriptive to sustainability-based solutions. Data visualization displays key issues such as heavy metal pollution, potential environmental risks, and the urgent need for policy reform.