Indonesia is ramping up its campaign to gain United Nations (UN) recognition for carbon credits generated from peatland restoration, in a move aimed at unlocking new avenues in global emissions trading, Indonesia Business Post has reported.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq called on companies to support the push for international acknowledgment of greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction certificates under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
“This is something we must push together, because the role of companies is greater than my own capacity,” Hanif was quoted as saying at the Peatland Ecosystem Restoration Collaboration Forum in Jakarta on October 2.
Relevant: New Satellite Imagery Analysis Shows Significant Results From Peatland Restoration
Peatlands, along with mangroves, are among the world’s most effective carbon sinks. According to Mr. Hanif, these ecosystems store “five to 10 times” more carbon than terrestrial forests.
Indonesia’s peatlands alone are estimated to hold between 55 and 56 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e).
The government sees significant potential in monetizing emission reductions from peat-rich areas, particularly those within private land concessions.
Indonesia’s Environment Ministry has set a target to restore 3.3 million hectares of peatland, drawn from a national total of 13.4 million hectares—believed to be the largest tropical peatland area globally.
Companies participating in peatland rehabilitation will be eligible for recognition through the government’s PROPER environmental rating system, and may also receive verified emissions certificates, potentially improving their access to green financing.
Community engagement is another key pillar. The government’s Independent Peatland Care Village (DMPG) program will involve residents in 2,354 villages, with 1,450 located in buffer zones spanning 528,000 hectares (1.3 million acres).
While companies will support empowerment efforts in these zones, the state will oversee restoration outside concession areas.
Read more: Indonesia’s Carbon Exchange Remains A Domestic Affair, For Now
