Knowledge, Networks and Memories

By Avianto Nugroho

Introduction

My name is Avianto Nugroho, from the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Republic of Indonesia. I specialise in environmental management, with a focus on marine and coastal sectors. As Indonesia is home to significant blue carbon ecosystems and has set ambitious emission reduction targets, I am particularly interested in the role of blue carbon in our climate strategy. I was eager to participate in the IORA Blue Carbon Program 2024, as engaging with fellow participants from other IORA member states will provide valuable insights, especially from a policy-making perspective.

Research Overview

Indonesia has set ambitious carbon emissions reduction targets for 2030, aiming for a 31.89% reduction unconditionally and 43.20% conditionally, as outlined in the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). The “unconditional” target means reductions achieved without external assistance, while “conditional” implies additional reductions with international support. Central to achieving these targets are Indonesia’s blue carbon ecosystems—mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes. However, effective governance is crucial for the sustainable management of these ecosystems, allowing them to fully contribute to climate change mitigation.

My research that I undertook at the Hub sought to explore avenues for enhancing Indonesia’s blue carbon governance. I found that significant opportunities for improvement in Indonesia’s current approach to blue carbon governance. The Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) document does not specifically account for blue carbon in climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, and there is a lack of a dedicated national framework or a roadmap to guide policymakers in this area. However, the National Strategy for Mangrove Ecosystem Management does present comprehensive strategies aimed at managing and reducing damage to mangroves. Despite these plans, many proposed strategies have faced implementation challenges, hindering efforts to mitigate mangrove degradation effectively.

Indonesia has made ambitious commitments to restore its mangrove ecosystems, targeting the rehabilitation of approximately 638,000 hectares of degraded mangroves by 2030. This initiative includes an intensive planting effort, with 17,641 hectares restored in 2020, and plans for reforestation covering 600,000 hectares between 2021 and 2024, alongside an annual restoration goal of 5,000 hectares from 2025 to 2030. Despite experiencing significant mangrove loss between 2009 and 2019—totaling 182,091 hectares deforested and 79,050 hectares degraded (primarily due to aquaculture, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development) restoration efforts present a considerable mitigation potential. Avoiding further deforestation and degradation could result in the mitigation of approximately 32 Tg CO2e annually, contributing significantly to the forestry sector’s NDC target.

Moreover, planned restoration activities are expected to reduce emissions by 7.5 Tg CO2e annually from 2021 to 2024 and 8.9 Tg CO2e annually from 2025 to 2030, with a total potential mitigation of 411 Tg CO2e over the 2020-2030 period, amounting to about 8% of the NDC target for the forestry sector. However, the financial requirements for rehabilitating approximately 200,000 hectares of degraded mangroves are estimated to range from US$29 billion to US$1.74 billion, while the 2021 government budget allocation for mangrove rehabilitation under the Peatland and Mangrove Restoration Agency is around US$10 billion, significantly lower than needed. Nevertheless, with additional international investment, scalable success in mangrove rehabilitation is possible.

In terms of seagrass ecosystems, reducing their degradation could enable Indonesian seagrasses to mitigate between 17 and 60 Mt CO2e per year by 2030. Implementing effective protection measures would not only contribute to carbon mitigation but also yield a variety of economic, environmental, and social co-benefits.

Program Overview

Participating in the IORA Blue Carbon Hub Early Career Ocean Professionals Program (ECOP) in 2024 has been an incredible journey filled with valuable experiences across multiple dimensions. One of the standout aspects of the program was the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of blue carbon governance. Through engaging workshops and insightful discussions, I gained a comprehensive understanding of the critical role that blue carbon ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes play in climate mitigation. This knowledge has not only enhanced my expertise but has also reinforced my commitment to advocating for sustainable management practices in Indonesia and beyond.

Another significant benefit of the ECOP program was the chance to network with an array of talented researchers and fellow participants from various IORA Member States. The diversity of perspectives and experiences enriched my learning and allowed me to forge meaningful connections that I believe will be instrumental in my future endeavors. Collaborating with peers who share a common passion for ocean conservation created an inspiring environment that fosters innovation and collective problem-solving.

Additionally, my stay in Australia was one of the most memorable highlights of the program. The opportunity to experience the local culture and explore Australia’s unique marine environments was truly impressive. It offered me a first-hand look at the challenges and successes in marine governance that other countries face, which I found both enlightening and motivating.

Overall, the IORA ECOP 2024 has been an enriching and transformative experience. I am grateful for the knowledge gained, the connections made, and the unforgettable moments created during this journey. I look forward to applying what I have learned and continuing my efforts in the realm of blue carbon governance.

Benefits

My experience of the IORA Early Career Ocean Professionals Program (ECOP) 2024 has been transformative and is set to significantly benefit my career in the future. Firstly, the program provided comprehensive training in scientific work, equipping me with essential skills that are crucial for conducting impactful research. This training has not only deepened my understanding of blue carbon issues but has also enhanced my ability to contribute to meaningful solutions.

Moreover, the program greatly broadened my professional network. I had the opportunity to connect with researchers and professionals from various IORA Member States, fostering relationships that will be invaluable as I navigate my career. These connections have opened doors to collaborative opportunities and knowledge exchange that extends beyond borders. Additionally, my participation in ECOP broadened my perspective, particularly in terms of interdisciplinary approaches and international cultures. Engaging with diverse viewpoints has enriched my understanding of global ocean challenges and the multifaceted strategies needed to address them. This holistic perspective will be instrumental in my future endeavors, enabling me to approach problems with greater creativity and inclusivity. In summary, the IORA ECOP 2024 provided me with vital skills, expanded my network, and broadened my worldview, all of which will undoubtedly enhance my career trajectory in ocean governance and conservation.

After my participation in the IORA Early Career Ocean Professionals Program (ECOP) 2024, I am excited to share and implement the knowledge I gained at my institution, where blue carbon governance is a key focus area. I plan to conduct a sharing session to disseminate insights on effective governance strategies and best practices in managing blue carbon ecosystems. Additionally, I will engage my colleagues in discussions about the interdisciplinary approaches and international perspectives I encountered during the program, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovative solutions.

I am looking forward to participating as an ECOP alumni to continue building on this foundation. Each opportunity will enhance my expertise and allow me to contribute even more effectively to our institutional goals and the broader mission of sustainable ocean governance.