Jakarta (VNA) – Indonesia is stepping up its sustainable marine economy strategy, with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) aiming to bring its first coastal blue carbon projects to the international carbon market by 2027.
According to KKP, at least two pilot blue carbon projects are expected to be ready for international trading within the next three years. Ahmad Aris, Director of Coastal and Small Islands at the ministry, said the timeline is necessary to meet stringent carbon market requirements, including project preparation, validation and verification.
Blue carbon refers to carbon dioxide captured and stored by coastal ecosystems such as mangroves and seagrass beds, which serve as natural carbon sinks and play a crucial role in mitigating climate change.
Indonesia holds around 17% of the world’s blue carbon reserves, a significant advantage within its marine-based economy valued at an estimated 1.3 trillion USD. The government is prioritising the development of projects in seagrass ecosystems, which were not included in the country’s second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) on emission reductions.
National data show that Indonesia has approximately 660,000 ha of seagrass beds, and authorities are continuing to calculate their emission reduction potential.
Officials stressed that the objective goes beyond generating revenue from carbon trading. Protecting the ecological functions of coastal areas - considered natural buffers against climate change - remains a central priority.
To achieve the 2027 target, the government is coordinating with relevant agencies to finalise implementing regulations under Presidential Regulation No. 110/2025, expected to be completed by June 2026. These regulations will establish mechanisms for carbon pricing, greenhouse gas control and the operation of the national carbon market.
Indonesia has also identified 18 priority sites under its Blue Carbon Reserve Zoning Plan, covering both national strategic and provincial areas. Notable locations include the Derawan Islands, the Tanimbar Islands, Supiori Island, Lingga waters, the northern coast of Java, as well as areas in Kalimantan and Sulawesi./.
