Indonesia Eyes brazilian Ethanol Model to Reduce Fossil Fuel Dependence
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Indonesia’s state-owned oil company, PT Pertamina, is actively studying Brazil’s success in biofuel development as a key strategy to lessen the nation’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. The exploration is taking place at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) currently underway in Belém, Brazil, running from November 10 to 21, 2025.
A Proven Model for Sustainability
“Brazil has been very accomplished in developing ethanol,” stated a senior official from Pertamina during a session at the Indonesian pavilion on Tuesday, November 11. The official emphasized the crucial role biofuels play in bolstering energy security, promoting environmental sustainability, and stimulating economic growth, especially within local communities.Brazil’s established ethanol program has demonstrably improved income for farmers and strengthened the national economy through sugarcane-based ethanol production.
Pertamina intends to initiate business discussions with leaders in the Brazilian bioethanol sector to investigate potential partnerships and learn from their extensive experience. “We came to COP30 to study ethanol not just as a green fuel, but as a strategic solution to reduce Indonesia’s reliance on fossil fuel imports,” the official added.
Indonesia’s Green Diplomacy on Display
The indonesian Pavilion at COP30 serves as a central hub for showcasing the country’s commitment to green diplomacy and its comprehensive climate initiatives. These initiatives span critical sectors including forestry, energy, industry, and waste management. The pavilion is also facilitating collaborative efforts with key international partners, such as the United Kingdom and The Royal Foundation, with a focus on securing green financing and accelerating the adoption of low-emission technologies.
“Environmental diplomacy must go beyond the negotiation table. it’s time for real action,” declared Minister of Environment Hanif Faisol Nurofiq. “Indonesia is ready to lead the way with global partners toward a just and low-emission future.”
The design of this year’s Indonesian Pavilion reflects a intentional fusion of cultural heritage and sustainability, symbolizing a harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural world. “We want the Indonesia Pavilion to stand as a symbol of openness, collaboration, and Indonesia’s leadership in tackling the climate crisis,” the minister concluded.
Related initiatives include the mapping of 920,000 hectares of land earmarked for expanded ethanol production and consideration of East Java as a potential location for a new ethanol factory.
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Why: Indonesia is seeking to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels and enhance its energy security.
Who: PT Pertamina, Indonesia’s state-owned oil company, is leading the effort, with support from Minister of Environment Hanif Faisol Nurofiq and collaboration with international partners like the UK and The Royal Foundation.
What: Indonesia is studying Brazil’s successful biofuel model, particularly ethanol production from sugarcane, to potentially replicate it within Indonesia. This includes exploring partnerships, mapping land for ethanol production, and considering a new ethanol factory.
How did it end?: The initiative is ongoing as of november 11, 2025, at COP30 in Belém, Brazil. Pertamina is actively engaging in discussions with Brazilian leaders to explore potential collaborations and gather insights. The mapping of land and consideration of a new factory suggest a concrete plan for implementation, but the outcome remains to be seen.
