Importance of Decarbonization in Indonesia for Achieving Net-Zero Emission 2060 and its Stakeholder Collaboration

Decarbonization refers to the process of reducing or eliminating carbon emissions in order to mitigate climate change and achieve a low-carbon economy. It involves taking various steps and implementing strategies to transition from carbon-intensive energy sources and practices to cleaner and more sustainable alternatives. The concept of decarbonization has become very important since the Paris Agreement in 2015. The agreement aims to decrease of  global warming below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to limit the temperature not increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The primary motivation behind decarbonization is to reduce the risk of significant climate change and mitigate its negative impacts on both humans and ecosystems. Furthermore, according to the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut B. Pandjaitan at the Net-Zero Summit and B20 Investment Forum Opening Ceremony organized by KADIN Indonesia at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center that Indonesia is committed to reduce carbon emission and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 or earlier. It reflects a significant commitment by the country to address climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 

Currently, the Government of Indonesia is making an energy transition towards decarbonization, this is the important step to tackle climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Specific information regarding emission reduction targets is listed in Indonesia's Enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC). In Indonesia, the unconditional emission reduction target has increased from 29% to 31.89% in 2030. This target reflects Indonesia's commitment to take important steps to reduce emissions in the relevant sectors. In addition, the emission reduction target with international assistance (conditional) has also increased from 41% to 43.2%. Focusing on sectors with the highest emissions is crucial for Indonesia to achieve significant emission reductions. The energy sector and the forest and/or land sectors are key areas that contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions in Indonesia. Addressing emissions in these sectors is vital for the country's decarbonization efforts.

In addition, the increase in Indonesia's energy supply by almost 60% from 2000 to 2021 reflects economic growth and increased energy demand in this period. As a developing country with a large population and significant economic growth, Indonesia has experienced increasing demand for energy to meet the needs of industry, transportation and other sectors. Indeed, as a developing country with a growing population and economy, Indonesia has witnessed a significant increase in energy demand over the years. However, based on information from the International Energy Agency (IEA) that Indonesia's total energy sector emissions have been growing faster than energy demand, with more than doubling over the past two decades. By 2021, energy sector emissions are expected to be around 600 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (Mt CO2), making Indonesia is the ninth largest emitter in the world.

Energy sector CO2 emissions in Indonesia, 2000-2021

However, it is important to note that increased energy supply also means increased greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide, if the energy used comes from sources that are not environmentally friendly. Therefore, apart from increasing energy supply, attention must also be paid to diversifying energy sources towards utilizing cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Decarbonizing the energy sector and reducing greenhouse gas emissions can be a significant challenge for Indonesia. The country faces a unique set of circumstances, including its large population, economic growth, energy demand, and reliance on fossil fuels. But, examining CO2 emissions by sector and sub-sector can provide valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with the net-zero emissions pathway. By understanding the sources of emissions, it becomes possible to identify specific areas where emission reductions can be targeted and appropriate strategies can be developed, including the use of suitable technologies and collaboration with relevant stakeholder.

Other factors that contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions in Indonesia are forests and land. Here are some factors that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions in relation to forests and land in Indonesia. First is deforestation, Indonesia has experienced significant deforestation due to the expansion of agriculture, particularly for palm oil plantations, logging, and land conversion for other purposes. Deforestation releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) stored in trees and vegetation into the atmosphere. Second is peatland degradation. Indonesia has large areas of peatland, which store significant amounts of carbon. When peatlands are drained or burned for agriculture, particularly for palm oil production, the stored carbon is released as CO2, contributing to emissions. Then third is land-use change, apart from deforestation, other land-use changes like conversion of forests into plantations, urban development, and infrastructure expansion also release greenhouse gases. These activities typically involve land clearing and the release of carbon stored in vegetation and soil.

Related to the problem mentioned that Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah (RTRW) plays an important role in tackling climate change and reducing its impact. RTRW guides land-use based on the functions of an area, its potential, and various considerations, including the impact of climate change. In the context of climate change, RTRW can play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preserving carbon reserves, and mitigating the risks associated with climate change-related impacts. The effective implementation of RTRW requires collaboration between various parties. This collaboration involves the central and regional governments, private sector stakeholders, civil society organization, and the surrounding community. By engaging stakeholders in the planning process, incorporating their perspectives and knowledge, and fostering partnerships, RTRW can be more effectively implemented and monitored to address the challenges of decarbonization, climate change, and achieving net-zero emission 2060. 

-Wika Ristya-

References:

International Energy Agency Special Report. 2022. An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions in Indonesia.(https://iea.blob.core.windows.net/assets/b496b141-8c3b-47fc-adb2-90740eb0b3b8/AnEnergySectorRoadmaptoNetZeroEmissionsinIndonesia.pdf)

UNFCC. 2022. Enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution Republic of Indonesia. (https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/NDC/202209/23.09.2022_Enhanced%20NDC%20Indonesia.pdf)

Kementerian PPN BAPPENAS. 2020. Rencana Pembangunan Jangka Menengah Nasional 2020-2024.(https://perpustakaan.bappenas.go.id/e-library/file_upload/koleksi/migrasi-data-publikasi/file/RP_RKP/Dokumen%20RPJMN%202020-2024/Lampiran%201.%20Narasi%20RPJMN%202020-2024.pdf)