Indonesia, which is both a climate-vulnerable nation and the world’s sixth-largest greenhouse gas emitter, faces intense pressure to shift away from its reliance on coal. Despite recent devastating floods in Bali and increasing climate-related disasters, policies continue to lock the country into fossil fuel dependency, particularly through loopholes allowing “captive” coal plants for industrial use. Indonesia is using its presence at COP30 to position itself as a voice for the Global South, pushing for climate equity and finance, while simultaneously promoting its vast carbon-market potential. Experts warn that the country’s reliance on coal and its delayed emissions peak (now targeted for 2035) demand immediate, faster cuts.
November 20, 2025. theguardian.com