The Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) is advocating for the use of carbon in the forestry sector as a means to enhance the economy of Southwest Papua Province (PBD). Drasospolino, Secretary of the Directorate General of Sustainable Forest Management (PHL) at KLHK, detailed this initiative during a carbon trading socialization event in Sorong on Sunday, focusing on the Papua and Maluku regional forestry sectors.

According to Antara News Agency, the introduction and understanding of carbon trading, as regulated by the Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation Number 7 of 2023, are crucial for stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and the community. This regulation aligns with Indonesia’s commitment to achieve its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), aimed at addressing climate change impacts.

The socialization aims to ensure comprehensive understanding and subsequent participation in carbon trading in the forestry sector, seen as a viable opportunity for economic growth. Drasospolino emphasized the importance of stakeholders and business actors grasping the procedures, requirements, and benefits of carbon trading.

There are two primary mechanisms for carbon trading in the forestry sector: emissions trading and greenhouse gas emissions offset. Drasospolino highlighted that Southwest Papua, with its extensive forest area, holds significant potential as an emission offset area, contributing to greenhouse gas emission reduction efforts.

He further explained that carbon trading is not only a strategy to support climate change control through its economic value (NEK) but also has the potential to reduce emissions by up to 32.8 percent.

The initiative by KLHK in Southwest Papua signifies a strategic move towards leveraging environmental resources for economic development while simultaneously contributing to global efforts in mitigating climate change impacts.