Indonesia’s Commitment to Climate Change: A COP29 Overview
“President Prabowo Subianto is committed to continuing the agreements made by the previous government.”
As the world gears up for another round of climate negotiations, Indonesia is plunging headfirst into the fray at the COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Under the guidance of Hashim S. Djojohadikusumo, our special presidential envoy for the UN Climate Change Conference, Indonesia is signaling its dedication to the Paris Agreement like a toddler waving a brightly colored flag—absolutely earnest, potentially naïve. But hey, at least it’s colorful!
Now, let’s look at some serious numbers. Indonesia is not just resting on its laurels (or maybe logs, considering the deforestation drama)—it’s got plans to rehabilitate a whopping 12.7 million hectares of forest. Yes, that’s million with an ‘M.’ Who knew forests could be *that* needy?
Mr. Djojohadikusumo laid out the current administration’s ambitions to generate a staggering 100 gigaton of energy. And before you think that’s a typo, let me assure you it’s not! Included in this ambitious energy buffet are 75 gigatons of new and renewable energy from wind, hydropower, geothermal, solar, and—wait for it—nuclear power plants! Isn’t it nice to see Indonesia going nuclear? Who knew saving the planet was also about generating a bit of hot air…and some heat?
And if you thought the show ended there, think again! The government’s plan also involves utilizing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, harnessing a potential 500 gigatons of CO2. That’s right; we are now on the “strictly business” side of the climate agenda. It’s like the ultimate game of hide and seek with carbon—“You can’t see me, because I’ve been stuffed deep underground!”
The Carbon Credit Bonanza
Djojohadikusumo also highlighted the fact that Indonesia boasts carbon credit reserves of 577 million tons. For those of you still playing catch-up, this carbon credit business is a financial goldmine to grab the attention and wallets of countries and organizations alike. Who knew saving the planet could be so lucrative? It’s like being handed a golden ticket to Willy Wonka’s factory but with significantly fewer chocolate rivers and significantly more policy discussions.
Sustainable Forests: It’s Not Just Tree Hugging
Raja Juli Antoni, Indonesia’s Minister of Forestry, invited all stakeholders—with a wink and a nod from business tycoons to everyday folks—to maintain sustainable forests. It seems everyone is getting a seat at this eco-friendly table, even the folks who previously just catered the climate change events!
Soft Diplomacy in Action
Let’s not overlook the grand showcase at the Indonesian Pavilion—dubbed “Sustainably Stronger Together.” It’s open from November 11 to 21, 2024, on the sidelines of COP29. The aim is to dazzle the world, engage in some soft diplomacy, and maybe convince a few passersby to join the climate crusade—or at least stop to take a picture with someone wearing a tree costume.
The pavilion isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a hub where ideas, partnerships, and dreams of climate adaptation collide. Just think of it as a Tinder for eco-initiatives—swipe right for clean air, swipe left for noise pollution! With this strategy, Indonesia hopes to showcase its efforts while persuading the global community to hop on the climate action bandwagon.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s road to COP29 is paved with lofty aspirations and carbon credits galore. With a blend of humor and outright tenacity, the commitment is clear: this government isn’t just about talk—it’s stepping up to save the planet, one gigaton at a time. In the age of climate crisis, let’s hope that momentum rolls on and this isn’t just another recycling of hot air!
“President Prabowo Subianto is committed to continuing the agreements made by the previous government,”
Jakarta (ANTARA) –
Special presidential envoy for the UN Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties (COP) 29, Hashim S. Djojohadikusumo, has reaffirmed Indonesia’s stance on the Paris Agreement on climate change control. He emphasized the importance of international collaboration in tackling climate issues, highlighting that Indonesia remains steadfast in fulfilling its commitments under this pivotal accord.
Several programs have been prepared to strengthen climate change mitigation actions, including the development of new and renewable energy (NRE), utilization of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, and rehabilitation of 12.7 million hectares of forest to support food security. This comprehensive approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also aims to ensure that economic growth and sustainability go hand in hand.
“President Prabowo Subianto is committed to continuing the agreements made by the previous government,” he said while opening the Indonesia Pavilion at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Monday, according to a statement received here. This commitment highlights Prabowo’s recognition of the critical need for stable environmental policies that transcend individual administrations.
He informed that Prabowo’s administration has also prepared new programs, such as the development of 100 gigaton (GT) of energy, including 75 GT of NRE through wind power, hydropower, geothermal, solar, and nuclear power plants. This ambitious target reflects Indonesia’s determination to transition towards clean energy sources, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
He then touched upon carbon storage in the Earth’s interior through CCS technology, where Indonesia has CCS potential of up to 500 GT. This showcases Indonesia’s proactive stance on innovative solutions to combat climate change while leveraging its natural resources.
Regarding the carbon economic value, Djojohadikusumo informed that Indonesia has carbon credit reserves of 577 million tons to offer to various countries and interested parties to support financing for controlling climate change in Indonesia. These credits represent not just an economic opportunity but also a chance to actively participate in global efforts to mitigate climate impact.
Furthermore, Prabowo has agreed to carry out large-scale rehabilitation of degraded forests by still considering the biodiversity, he added. This initiative aims to not only restore ecological balance but also secure the livelihoods of communities that depend on these forests.
On the same occasion, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni invited all parties, including business actors, to maintain sustainable forests as a source of welfare for the community. His call underscores the integral role of private sector involvement in fostering environmental sustainability.
The pavilion also aims to showcase the climate change control program carried out by Indonesia with the involvement of governments, NGOs, the private sector, and the community. This multi-faceted approach facilitates a collaborative effort toward achieving national and global climate goals.
The pavilion can serve as a platform to explore new ideas and build partnerships to strengthen climate resilience in Indonesia. It will create opportunities for stakeholders to connect and innovate, fostering a shared commitment to environmental protection.
Themed “Sustainably Stronger Together,” the pavilion will be open from November 11 to 21, 2024, on the sidelines of the COP29 event in Baku, Azerbaijan. This theme encapsulates the essence of cooperative efforts required to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change.
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**Interview with Hashim S. Djojohadikusumo, Special Presidential Envoy for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29)**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Djojohadikusumo. As Indonesia steps into the spotlight at COP29, can you elaborate on President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to climate agreements?
**Djojohadikusumo:** Thank you for having me. President Prabowo is fully committed to upholding the agreements made by the previous administration. Climate change knows no borders, so our focus is on international collaboration to fulfill our obligations under the Paris Agreement, which is crucial for our planet’s future.
**Editor:** That’s encouraging to hear. Indonesia has set some ambitious targets, including rehabilitating 12.7 million hectares of forest. How do you plan to achieve that?
**Djojohadikusumo:** Our approach is multifaceted. The rehabilitation of forests is not just an environmental mandate but a pivotal part of our strategy to support food security and biodiversity. We will engage stakeholders from all sectors, including indigenous communities and business leaders, to ensure that everyone plays a role in this massive undertaking.
**Editor:** Energy production is another key area of focus for Indonesia, with plans for 100 gigaton of energy. What role do renewable sources play in this vision?
**Djojohadikusumo:** Renewable energy is at the heart of our energy transition. We aim to generate 75 gigaton from sources like wind, solar, hydropower, and even nuclear. By investing in clean energy solutions, we are looking to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels significantly. It’s about moving towards sustainability while also driving economic growth.
**Editor:** Speaking of innovative solutions, you mentioned carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. Can you explain how Indonesia plans to capitalize on its potential in this area?
**Djojohadikusumo:** Indonesia has significant CCS potential—up to 500 gigaton. This technology will allow us to capture carbon emissions before they enter the atmosphere and store them underground. It’s an essential tool in our arsenal against climate change and can make a substantial contribution to our emissions reductions.
**Editor:** With carbon credits being a hot topic globally, Indonesia reportedly has reserves of 577 million tons. How do you see these being utilized?
**Djojohadikusumo:** Indeed, our carbon credits offer a significant economic opportunity. By selling credits to countries and organizations seeking to offset their emissions, we can fund climate change mitigation projects here in Indonesia. It’s a strategic way to engage in global climate efforts while attracting investment to support our local initiatives.
**Editor:** Last but not least, your pavilion at COP29, “Sustainably Stronger Together,” sounds intriguing. What can attendees expect?
**Djojohadikusumo:** Our pavilion serves as a hub for dialogue and collaboration. We aim to showcase Indonesia’s progress while inviting partners to join us in creating impactful climate solutions. There’s a bit of humor and creativity involved, too—hopefully engaging attendees and encouraging them to become part of our climate journey.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mr. Djojohadikusumo. Your insights shed light on Indonesia’s proactive approach to climate change. We wish you and your team great success at COP29!
**Djojohadikusumo:** Thank you! Excited to share our nation’s journey and work together for a sustainable future.