Indonesia is developing a methane reduction roadmap to fulfill its 30% emission reduction commitment

en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) is drafting a methane reduction roadmap focused on the energy sector to support Indonesia in meeting its emission reduction targets under the Global Methane Pledge (GMP). Indonesia signed the pledge in November 2021, committing to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030.

Erina Mursanti, Deputy CEO of IESR, stated that cutting methane emissions is one of the effective ways to mitigate global warming. Methane has a global warming potential approximately 86 times that of carbon dioxide over a 20-year time horizon; additionally, reducing methane leaks can prevent energy losses, thereby improving operational efficiency, strengthening corporate governance, and enhancing competitiveness.

The development of this roadmap is being carried out in parallel with the ongoing work of Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and the Environmental Control Agency (KLH/BPLH). KLH/BPLH is developing the Indonesia Methane Roadmap covering the waste, agriculture, and energy sectors. According to the agency, flaring and venting emissions account for approximately 74% of methane emissions in the energy sector, with the remainder coming from fugitive emissions and other operational activities. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is revising regulations related to natural gas flaring, in line with Indonesia's goal of achieving "zero routine flaring by 2030."

After reviewing the sustainability reports of several major oil, natural gas, and coal companies, IESR found that only about half of the assessed companies disclosed Scope 3 emissions. IESR believes this situation reflects potential sustainability and market risks amid the accelerating global shift in demand toward low-carbon products. A clear methane reduction roadmap can help companies improve operational efficiency, adapt to changing market expectations, and maintain competitiveness, while also supporting Indonesia's climate goals.