Human activities since the Industrial Revolution, which began in the 18th century, have caused a significant increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. The burning of fossil fuels, land-use change, deforestation, and industrial activities are the main contributors to the increase in emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrogen oxides (N₂O). The accumulation of these gases strengthens the natural greenhouse effect, trapping heat in the atmosphere and triggering global warming. This phenomenon has proven to have serious impacts on changing weather patterns, climate, melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and the degradation of ecosystems around the world.
Global Agreements to Address Greenhouse Gas Emissions
In response to the ongoing threat, various international meetings have resulted in global agreements to address the issue of GHGs and climate change. One of the protocols agreed upon by international countries is the Kyoto Protocol, adopted in 1997 to establish an international framework for reducing GHG emissions.
The Kyoto Protocol and Developed Countries’ Obligations
The Kyoto Protocol binds developed countries listed in Annex I, which are countries that have been industrialized since the 19th century and have a significant responsibility for the accumulation of GHGs in the atmosphere. Countries included in this list, such as the United States, Canada, Japan, European Union countries, and Russia, are required to meet agreed-upon emission reduction targets using various mechanisms such as emissions trading, implementation of environmentally friendly projects, and the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
Indonesia’s Role in Climate Change Mitigation
Meanwhile, developing countries like Indonesia are not required to reduce emissions but are encouraged to voluntarily contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts. As part of its commitment, Indonesia ratified and adopted the Kyoto Protocol through Law No. 17 of 2004, which was enacted on July 28, 2004, making it national law that supports global efforts to reduce the impacts of climate change.
Indonesia plays a crucial role in global efforts to tackle climate change due to its abundant natural resources, including tropical forests and peatlands, which have great potential to absorb carbon and reduce GHG emissions. Therefore, Indonesia is the focus of various mitigation initiatives, such as reforestation programs and peatland conservation. In the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) document submitted as part of the Paris Agreement in 2015, Indonesia committed to reducing GHG emissions by 29% through its own efforts or up to 41% with international support by 2030. This commitment reflects Indonesia’s seriousness in playing its role as a developing country responsible for reducing GHG emissions.
Challenges in Emission Reduction in Indonesia
Despite its vast potential, Indonesia faces various challenges in reducing GHG emissions. Deforestation, forest fires, and land-use change remain serious issues that increase carbon emissions. One of the factors exacerbating this situation is the irresponsible practices of some companies involved in land clearing for palm oil plantations, mining, and other industries. Many unscrupulous companies engage in illegal logging and forest clearing without considering the ecological impacts, leading to the destruction of forests that function as natural carbon sinks. In addition, frequent forest fires, whether intentional for agricultural land clearing or caused by extreme weather conditions, further exacerbate the release of carbon emissions into the atmosphere. On the other hand, the need for economic growth often conflicts with environmental conservation efforts, as these sectors are considered key drivers of national economic development, despite their harmful environmental impacts.
Solutions and Efforts Toward Low-Carbon Development
To address these challenges, Indonesia has adopted various policies and programs, including a moratorium on forest clearing permits, peatland restoration, and the development of renewable energy sources such as solar and geothermal power. Public participation and private sector involvement are also key to accelerating the transition to low-carbon development.
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