As Indonesia turns COP30 into carbon market showcase, critics warn of ‘hot air’

Mongabay
Mongabay
2M ago
41 views
Indonesia is aggressively marketing its carbon credits at COP30, but experts warn many may not represent real emissions reductions. This raises concerns about the integrity of its carbon market.
As Indonesia turns COP30 into carbon market showcase, critics warn of ‘hot air’
A What happened
During COP30, Indonesia is actively promoting its carbon credits, launching initiatives like daily 'Sellers Meet Buyers' sessions to attract international investment. Despite this push, experts caution that many of Indonesia's carbon credits may not represent genuine emissions reductions. The country's climate targets are deemed 'critically insufficient,' leading to concerns about the integrity of its carbon market. Critics argue that the focus on carbon trading could distract Indonesia from securing necessary climate finance and addressing real emissions cuts. The risks associated with forest-based credits, which are a significant part of Indonesia's offerings, further complicate the situation, as they may not guarantee actual reductions in greenhouse gases.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Carbon credits may lack integrity: Many Indonesian carbon credits might not represent real emissions reductions.

  • 2

    Weak climate targets raise concerns: Indonesia's climate goals are rated 'critically insufficient,' undermining credit validity.

  • 3

    Market risks for developing countries: Carbon trading may distract from securing essential climate finance.

  • 4

    Environmental groups warn of 'hot air': Critics argue that many credits are just 'hot air' and do not lead to real reductions.

Takeaways

Indonesia's aggressive promotion of carbon credits at COP30 raises significant concerns about the integrity and effectiveness of its carbon market. Without real emissions reductions, the reliance on carbon trading could hinder genuine climate progress.

Topics

Business & Markets Economy Climate & Environment Climate Change Sustainability

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