Amid the continued global shift toward clean energy, Indonesia must assume a strategic role by prioritizing environmental conservation and optimizing clean energy, he said at the Republika Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Award ceremony in Jakarta on Thursday.
"Today, the world is talking about green energy and green industry that aim for long-term sustainability. So, I think we have no other choice. In the future, environmentally oriented development must be an important part," he added.
He noted that the trend of using environmentally friendly energy has even penetrated the banking sector.
In several countries, including in Europe, banks currently require recommendations from environmental institutions to provide financing.
"In Europe and several other countries, banks will only provide credit if there is a recommendation from environmental observer institutions," he said.
He also emphasized that the move is not only a current responsibility, but also an effort to leave a better world for future generations.
"What we are doing now is to leave a better future for our children and grandchildren," he said.
Indonesia has great potential to maximize the use of green energy, he added.
With abundant renewable energy resources, Indonesia is considered to have sufficient capacity to contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions.
"We have extraordinary capabilities for natural resources. Our renewable energy is quite abundant," he highlighted.
Bahlil further explained the importance of preserving existing forests and utilizing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology to support the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and tackle climate change.
Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan also expressed a similar view.
He emphasized that preserving the environment is no longer an option, but a necessity and a global concern.
"Environmental sustainability is no longer an option, but a necessity. And, it is a concern for the whole world, not just us," he said.
With the increasing global trend toward sustainability, Lahadalia and Hasan also agreed on the importance of concrete steps by Indonesia to deal with climate change and utilize the existing potential of renewable energy.
Related news: Indonesia can help the world achieve net-zero emissions: Minister
Related news: Jokowi presses for simplifying permits to harness geothermal potential
Related news: Indonesia to supply 2-3 gigawatts of green electricity to Singapore
Translator: Kelik Dewanto, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
