Rethinking sustainable livelihoods from the ground up
JAKARTA — When the energy transition confronts difficult economic conditions within a country, addressing the transition’s unequal impact becomes both more challenging and more imperative. In Indonesia, with an economy recently described as a “ticking time bomb,” coal mining has long been the main driver of GDP in certain regencies and provinces. Pursuit of the energy transition in such places…
Jakarta — The energy transition poses significant economic challenges, particularly in countries facing economic instability. Indonesia, whose economy is currently likened to a "ticking time bomb," has historically relied heavily on coal mining to fuel its GDP. As the nation embarks on the path of energy transition, the question of how to achieve economic diversification and growth in regions where coal mining has been central while simultaneously addressing climate change becomes increasingly complex.
The solution to mitigating economic shocks stemming from the shift away from fossil fuels appears to lie in broadening income sources. However, this is a far more intricate task than it seems. A just energy transition necessitates a comprehensive transformation, involving the creation of meaningful employment opportunities, addressing human capital gaps, and alleviating poverty. Crucially, these efforts must be customized to each region's unique assets and the distinct requirements of its communities.
To illustrate, consider Pulau Panggung, a village nestled in the Muara Enim region. Locally, the transition requires a nuanced approach that respects the village's specific conditions and addresses its particular challenges.
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- Rethinking sustainable livelihoods from the ground up koreatimes.co.kr