Jakarta: Indonesia is facing growing international pressure to strengthen its climate policies ahead of the upcoming United Nations climate summit, as rising wildfires, floods and pollution expose the country’s worsening environmental challenges.
The 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) begins on November 9 in Antalya, Turkey, with representatives from across the world expected to discuss measures to accelerate the 2015 Paris Agreement.
Indonesia’s climate strategy has drawn criticism from environmental groups, with the Climate Action Tracker categorising the country’s efforts as “critically insufficient”. Critics argue that continued dependence on fossil fuels and projects involving forest conversion could undermine emission reduction targets.
The environmental impact has become increasingly visible. Last November, floods and landslides across northern Sumatra claimed more than 1,200 lives. Meanwhile, extensive forest and peatland fires across Sumatra, Kalimantan and Papua have pushed Indonesia’s wildfire emissions to the highest globally.
A report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) estimated that wildfire smoke in Sumatra and Kalimantan caused 3,560 deaths in September. The organisation has urged Jakarta to prioritise renewable energy and abandon policies that could increase emissions.
Indonesia is also facing legal challenges over alleged failures in managing environmental disasters, including lawsuits concerning the 2025 Sumatra floods and wildfires in West Kalimantan. Separately, four residents of Pari Island have pursued legal action against Swiss cement company Holcim over its contribution to global emissions.
The islanders warn that rising sea levels could submerge their 41-hectare home by 2050.
Meanwhile, mining businessman Hashim Djojohadikusumo has been appointed to lead Indonesia’s COP31 delegation, where the government says it will pursue stronger international climate cooperation.
