The climate crisis has had serious impacts on economic sovereignty, public safety, and the environment. Indonesia is expected to take concrete steps in mitigation and adaptation, using the formulation of its SNDC (Second Nationally Determined Contributions) as a turning point to change course, while acknowledging past delays in responding and moving forward with greater focus. The government should postpone permits for new coal-fired power plants, particularly in industrial zones, so that the 2050 net-zero carbon emissions target is not delayed.
Techno-solutionist approaches actually hinder emissions reductions—for example, coal-fired power plants that should be able to be shut down through biomass co-firing or CCS/CCUS. Ambitions for biofuels, including B35 and bioethanol, also risk opening up new land and driving deforestation. Emissions data for individual power plants and industrial zones remain difficult to access, while renewable energy mix targets have instead been lowered.
However, public pressure can bring about solutions. Community-based energy and a restorative economy are practical options, supported by progressive fiscal policies for sectors that contribute to emissions and environmental damage. The involvement of women, Indigenous Peoples, and young people across Indonesia is key to renewing SNDC commitments so that future action does not become trapped in false solutions.
The climate crisis has had serious impacts on economic sovereignty, public safety, and the environment. Indonesia is expected to take concrete steps in mitigation and adaptation, using the formulation of its SNDC as a turning point to acknowledge past delays and move forward with greater focus. The government should consider postponing permits for new coal-fired power plants, especially in industrial zones, to ensure the 2050 net-zero emissions target is not delayed.
Techno-solutionist approaches have, in fact, hindered emissions reduction—for example, coal plants that could be phased out through biomass co-firing or CCS/CCUS remain operational. Ambitions for biofuels like B35 and bioethanol also risk driving new land clearing and deforestation. Emissions data for individual power plants and industrial areas remain hard to access, while renewable energy targets have been slipping.
Yet, public pressure can drive real solutions. Community-based energy and restorative economic models offer viable alternatives, supported by progressive fiscal policies targeting high-emission and environmentally damaging sectors. The involvement of women, Indigenous Peoples, and youth across Indonesia is crucial to renewing SNDC commitments and ensuring that future steps are not derailed by superficial solutions.
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