By: Sujala Pant, Deputy Resident Representative UNDP Indonesia
Indonesia feels as if it is a microcosm of the world’s biodiversity – from lush forests to immense mangroves, and a vast ocean with all its marine biodiversity – you can all find it all here.
Among this natural richness, the country is on an ambitious path to address the significant impacts of climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect the incredible natural heritage that makes up this archipelagic country of over 17,000 islands.
The numbers tell a sobering story. According to Indonesia’s Third Biennial Update Report submitted to the UNFCCC, a staggering 1.845 Gigaton of CO2 equivalent of national GHG emissions was recorded in 2019. These emissions were driven in large part by land use, Land-Use Change and Forestry including peat fires (55.84%), energy (34.49%), waste (6.52%), and Industrial Processes and Product Use (3.15%).
These challenges are not unrecognised nor are they brushed aside. Indonesia knows that as it takes on an increasingly larger role as a key regional and global player, it is imperative to address and reduce its carbon footprint. This needs to happen while maintaining the necessary development trajectory to swiftly move out of the middle-income trap in a way that benefits communities across their diversities.
A large part of these efforts is taking place through its valuable partnership and collaboration with the Global Environment Facility, which brings together technical support, and international expertise, and leverages financial resources. This alliance between the GOI and the GEF has enabled Indonesia to embark on innovative initiatives that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also promote a more equitable, greener, and resilient future for its people. Ensuring that there are concrete dividends for the communities at stake remains a central part of the strategy. Throughout this journey, UNDP Indonesia has been a key partner.
Navigating the impacts of climate change:
Escalating sea levels, extreme climate events and prolonged droughts have made life increasingly more difficult for vulnerable coastal communities. The concerted actions that have been taken through catalytic GEF-funded projects have not only addressed the immediate needs of the affected communities, but they have been central to developing solutions to increase resilience. Likewise, as the role of a blue and marine economy takes center stage in the upcoming long-term development plan, concerted efforts have been taken to champion sustainable fisheries, promote marine conservation and coastal tourism, and harness the potential of the oceans while safeguarding the rich and invaluable marine ecosystems.
For example, in Nusa Lembongan, Bali Province, people had moved away from their tradition of seaweed farming. But with the support of the Small Grants Programme individuals like Ni Wayan Uri and other members of Segara Raksa Seaweed Group are reviving this, providing a livelihood for the community, while securing the rich marine biodiversity.
Harnessing the potential of renewable energy
One of the key challenges in Indonesia's sustainable development journey has been the transition from fossil fuel-based energy sources to clean and renewable alternatives.
GEF-funded projects have facilitated the adoption of renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, promoting their integration into the national energy grid and thus making significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
