President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has taken a significant step towards realizing the nation's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 or earlier through the issuance of Presidential Decree No. 14/2024.

The regulation, ratified on January 30, 2024, specifically focuses on the implementation of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) activities, aiming to enhance Indonesia's contribution to global environmental sustainability.

The presidential decree addresses the commercialization of CCS, extending beyond the traditional oil and gas sector to include industries and smelters.

Under the regulation, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is entrusted with the responsibility of granting storage operation permits to entities that meet the stipulated requirements.

One of the groundbreaking aspects of this regulation is its emphasis on facilitating cross-border CCS activities between nations. This is set to be achieved through bilateral cooperation agreements, enabling the transportation of CCS initiatives across countries.

The regulation paves the way for collaborative efforts in combating climate change, transcending geographical boundaries. Tutuka Ariadji, Director-General of Oil and Gas at ESDM, highlighted the opportunities this regulation presents to the industry.

"The regulation provides the industry with the opportunity to conduct CCS in designated areas for CO2 emission injection. Furthermore, it allows for cross-border CO2 activities, fostering international cooperation in tackling environmental challenges," explained Ariadji.

Mirza Mahendra, Director of Oil and Gas Technical and Environmental Affairs at ESDM, clarified that cross-border CCS activities do not entail a direct transfer of CO2 from abroad to Indonesia. Rather, there are meticulous mechanisms that must be fulfilled, including establishing cooperation between governments through international agreements.

The regulation signifies Indonesia's commitment to harnessing advanced technologies and fostering global collaboration to combat climate change. By incorporating CCS into the nation's roadmap, President Joko Widodo aims to propel Indonesia towards a sustainable and low-carbon future.

As the country takes bold strides towards achieving its environmental targets, this regulation opens new avenues for industries, both domestically and internationally, to contribute to Indonesia's net-zero emissions goal.

Indonesia's commitment to environmental stewardship continues to evolve, positioning the nation as a key player in the global fight against climate change.