Indonesia’s challenge: How to push biofuel without aiding deforestation

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Like EV, solar panels manufacturing, sale of renewable energy via external powerful grids to other countries (think Laos to Singapore), biofuels export can be seen as the clean energy sector contributing to economic growth without harming the environment (biofuels are carbon-neutral). 

But unfortunately, in the case of biofuels, if the growth entails the clearing of forests/peatlands which function as carbon sinks, and the burning of forests to clear the land which contributes to the haze, then such economic growth may not be so green after all.....

Can Indonesia’s growth be “greened”, or will sustainability efforts take second place?

One key driver for growth will be the boost in production of biofuels. These have a plus side of potentially reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which are part of Indonesia’s emission reduction commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Qn: Should countries prioritise economic growth even if it harms the environment? (MI J3 MYE 2024)