Thohir emphasized that the climate change issue was far graver than the current COVID-19 pandemic.
"Among the many global challenges in the world, climate change is one of the toughest because it threatens human civilization. Climate change can even affect global economic growth, prosperity, and financial stability," Minister Thohir noted on his official Twitter account @erickthohir in Jakarta, Friday.
Economic development in all sectors, especially the energy, mineral, and coal industry, agriculture, plantations, as well as forestry bearing the concept of green economy was re-emphasized at the G20 in Rome and the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow.
Indonesia has renewed its climate commitments through the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) document that is complemented by the LTS-LCCR (Long Term Strategy – Low Carbon Climate Resilience) document.
"Unfortunately, this effort is not sufficient to limit the increase in the earth's average temperature to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius. Hence, we need the entire community to play an active role. It is necessary to raise awareness that this climate issue requires real approach," Thohir noted.
Moreover, the minister pointed to the tendency of the general public to care when the problem has occurred in front of their eyes.
Hence, we must adopt a contextual approach to speak about climate change in society without exception, he remarked.
"Mass organizations, be it social, cultural, and religious, should be involved in raising an understanding of climate change in their communities. We also need women with a more effective ability and approach to influence the mindset and perspective of society," he affirmed.
According to the minister, young people also play an important role. They should be involved in policy-making efforts to tackle climate change, as they will bear the impact of the future climate crisis if it is not taken seriously.
If all potentials could be tapped on an ongoing basis for climate change literacy in the wider community, then the understanding of the importance of the environment and the need to reduce carbon emissions would increase, he emphasized.
"Eventually, everyone will understand the context and play an active role in keeping the earth clean and green and provide greater economic benefits. Among other things, it will help in the creation of new industrial opportunities and greater employment opportunities, ensure more affordable energy prices and social and economic benefits, such as cleaner air and reduce the threat of hydrometeorological disasters due to climate change," Thohir explained.
Related news: Indonesia reaffirms actual work to mitigate climate change impact
Related news: Indonesia presses for joint action to mitigate climate change
Related news: Gender equality indispensable aspect in handling climate crisis: govt
Translator: Aji Cakti, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
