Heaptalk, Jakarta — The carbon market has gained attention among various groups in Indonesia, including young people. Policy Plus, an Indonesian knowledge hub, enhances youth awareness towards sustainability through socialization about carbon projects.
According to Kenneth Nicholas, Deputy Director of Policy Plus, this organization serves as a youth think tank, bringing together passionate individuals and policymakers from both inside and outside government, all from the Millennial and Gen Z generations. Kenny (Kenneth’s nickname) noted that sustainability and climate action, including carbon trading, are rapidly growing fields in the country.
“Since the last election, public awareness around environmental issues has increased. As you know, the UN has what’s called the Paris Agreement, which is an accord among over 190 countries to focus on achieving their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and promoting low-carbon development in Indonesia,” Kenny explained in a discussion with Poempida Hidayatulloh, an environmental activist, on the Forum Carbon Indonesia Youtube channel.
One of the government’s most strategic policies has been introducing the carbon market through the carbon pricing presidential regulation. This policy offers two mechanisms: cap-and-trade and the offset mechanism. With numerous carbon project developers now entering Indonesia, Policy Plus seeks to empower youth with knowledge about how these projects function, how to monitor their implementation, and how to advocate for greater corporate participation in carbon projects.
Interested in green jobs
Kenny emphasized that educating the public on the carbon market is not solely the government’s responsibility; it’s also up to the private sector. He detailed that seven key stakeholders are involved in this sector: government, private businesses, media, youth, academia, civil society, and local communities.
“In a biodiverse country like Indonesia, around 10 million people live in forest areas and are deeply concerned with forest conservation and biodiversity. We can offer them opportunities to preserve the forest while earning economic benefits by selling carbon offset credits and participating in Indonesia’s carbon economy,” Kenny stated.
Furthermore, the organization noted that youth are interested in green jobs and seek training, especially free training in green skills like carbon accounting. Many companies are now requesting ESG audits and carbon footprint assessments. Kenny believes it would be highly beneficial if students studying accounting, economics, or environmental science could earn certifications and if the government established a hub to help develop these skills.
Looking ahead, Policy Plus sees significant interest from young people in joining carbon trading activities, such as through the IDX carbon exchange. However, there is a need for more substantial initiatives from the government and businesses to involve them. “The government has made progress in regulation and stakeholder engagement, but I believe they should establish a dedicated task force specifically for carbon market implementation. This task force should include not only ministries but also associations, businesses, academia, experts, youth organizations, and think tanks,” Kenny concluded.
