Indonesia and Germany Strengthen Climate and Biodiversity Cooperation Ahead of COP16 and COP29

Indonesia and Germany are deepening their collaboration to tackle the urgent challenges of climate change and the biodiversity crisis. This strengthened partnership is exemplified by 48 projects facilitated by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) in Indonesia, a vital effort as the world prepares for two major global summits this year: COP16 on biodiversity in Colombia and COP29 on climate change in Azerbaijan.

Speaking at the 6th IKI Networking Workshop Countdown to COP16 and COP29: Strengthening Indonesia-Germany Cooperation for Global Impact event in Jakarta, Vivi Yulaswati, Deputy for Maritime Affairs and Natural Resources at the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), highlighted the long-standing cooperation between the two countries. "IKI has played a pivotal role in channeling Germany's financial commitment to support nations like Indonesia as they prepare for COP16 and COP29," she said.

Indonesia’s Sustainable Future: Aligning Climate and Biodiversity Goals with National Development

Yulaswati also emphasized how IKI programs align not only with Indonesia’s current government initiatives but also with the country's future agenda, which focuses on building a sustainable environment and enhancing resilience to climate shocks, disasters, and other crises. "We anticipate even more contributions and partnerships, particularly in climate change and energy transition—key topics for both COP16 and COP29," she added.

Germany’s Commitment to Indonesia's Climate Action

Thomas Graf, Deputy German Ambassador to Indonesia, praised Indonesia’s proactive stance on climate change and biodiversity protection. He pointed to initiatives like the launch of the Indonesian Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (IBSAP), recent Climate Action efforts, and the completion of Indonesia’s Second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), all of which serve as models for other countries.

"Addressing climate change is not just about mitigation; it’s also about restoring biodiversity and ensuring that the energy transition supports long-term sustainable development," Graf remarked. He further stressed the importance of Indonesia and Germany's partnership, which spans multiple sectors—from the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) to boosting community resilience and preserving biodiversity.

"The collaboration between our countries has accelerated Indonesia’s shift to renewable energy, reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and promoted sustainable land-use practices," he said, underscoring the need for continuous efforts to harmonize development, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

Driving Global Impact Through Energy Transition and Industrial Decarbonization

Philipp Behrens, Head of the IKI Division at Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), reiterated Germany’s priorities in supporting energy transitions and industrial decarbonization. He praised Indonesia as a key partner in global climate agreements. "Indonesia is leading by example, especially with its ambitious NDC targets that align with the Paris Agreement. The commitment shown is truly impressive," Behrens noted.

IKI updates from ZUG on IKI Strategy 2030 and Gender Transformative Mainstreaming

Berit Kasten and Kim Naser from the IKI Office (ZUG) provided key updates on the IKI strategy leading up to 2030, with a strong focus on gender mainstreaming. They emphasized that IKI’s approach integrates gender equality as a core principle, ensuring that women’s leadership and participation are central to climate action and biodiversity projects. The strategy aims to build resilient, inclusive ecosystems by breaking down structural barriers and fostering partnerships that prioritize sustainability and innovation, positioning IKI as a key player in addressing global environmental challenges.

IBSAP 2025-2045: Shaping Indonesia's Biodiversity Future

The first presentation focused on the Indonesian Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (IBSAP) 2025-2045, a cornerstone of Indonesia's efforts to safeguard its rich biodiversity. Priyanto Rohmattullah, SE, MA, Director of Environment at the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), laid out the government’s long-term vision for protecting ecosystems, ensuring sustainability, and preserving Indonesia's vast biodiversity for future generations.

SNDC 2031-2035: Driving Indonesia’s Climate Commitments

Franky Zamzani, S.Hut., M.Env., Deputy Director for Monitoring of Mitigation Action from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, presented Indonesia’s Second Nationally Determined Contribution (SNDC) 2031-2035. This updated climate action plan underscores Indonesia’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing climate resilience.

Stakeholder Talk: Perspectives on Climate and Biodiversity for COP16 and COP29

Following these key presentations, a stakeholder talk provided deeper insights into how Indonesia and Germany are collaborating on the global stage and moderated by Gita Syahrani. Head of Executive Board of Earth-Centered Economy Coalition. The speakers shed light on the shared vision of addressing climate and biodiversity issues.

Dr. Ir. Nur Masripatin, Senior Advisor to the Minister of Environment and Forestry, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in tackling climate change and implementing the SNDC and IBSAP. She discussed the role of policy and governance in creating impactful environmental strategies that contribute to global goals.

Representing the German Federal Foreign Office, Vanessa Moosmann underscored Germany’s support for Indonesia’s environmental agenda, particularly through IKI projects. She stressed the importance of bilateral partnerships in enhancing Indonesia’s efforts to transition to sustainable energy and conserve biodiversity.

Elke Steinmetz, Head of Division of International Cooperation on Biodiversity at BMUV, joined the discussion online. She highlighted the essential role of biodiversity conservation in the broader fight against climate change, noting that protecting ecosystems is not just an environmental issue but also a cornerstone of global sustainability.

Adding to the discussion, Nining Ngudi Purnamaningtyas, a Biodiversity Conservation Analyst from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, focused on the practical challenges and opportunities for implementing biodiversity conservation efforts. She emphasized the need for collaborative approaches that include local communities in biodiversity protection efforts.

Soft-launch of IKI Indonesia Website: A Milestone in Showcasing Impact

The soft-launch of the IKI Indonesia website marks a small but significant milestone in IKI efforts to document and showcase the impactful work of IKI projects across the country. The website highlights the contributions these projects are making toward Indonesia's ambitious environmental policies, emphasizing our shared commitment to preserving the nation’s rich biodiversity.

At present, only the landing page is publicly accessible. By December 2024, the website will be synchronized with the IKI Indonesia Newsletter, with ongoing refinements through 2025. You can access the website at www.iki-indonesia.id.