Jakarta, Ekuatorial – “We feel pessimistic this project will go well,” said Deddy Ratih Walhi Program Development Manager when responding to REDD+ project in indonesia to Ekuatorial (24/4). Deddy felt that the duties, functions and workload of REDD is huge and and there are a lot of structural problems.
Walhi’s pessimism contrasts with optimism from Chief of REDD+ agency Heru Prasetyo what he said in REDD+ agency performance evaluation at Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta, the previous day (23/4). Heru said that so far they are already on the right track and keep with the initial plan, He still optimistic to keep running this project.
“Currently we’re in the second phase that is transformation. There are three target for the year 2016: 1. indonesia in operational and in terms of institutions can be ready to enter into the third phase, 2. Indonesia reported emission reductions from three sectors: deforestation, peat decomposition, and burning peat, 3. Indonesia could achieve significant growth in carbon emissions mitigation activities,” Heru explained.
Then Heru mentioned the job lists that are being worked by The REDD+ agency: drafting the licensing database of forestry, agriculture, and mining; make a map of emission level for MRV (measurement, reporting and verification); acquisition of high resolution satellite; protect the interests of indigenous people; committed in a strong resolution to the conflict; support law enforcement for forest and peat protection; the making of the management of the burning forests and peat for mitigation efforts; the making of the green village and the green schools program; advocate in all levels from customary, province, countries and international; make a cooperation commitment with various parties.
Currently REDD operationally working in 11 provinces in Indonesia: Aceh, West Sumatra, Riau, Jambi. South Sulawesi, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, Central Sulawesi, Papua and West Papua. And in 2015 there will be 21 other provinces which are now in the preparation stage.
But, that long list can’t make Walhi optimistic that REDD+ agency could reduce emissions in indonesia effectively. Deddy mention that REDD+ agency position unclear because there is no legal basis. He’s worried if REDD+ agency will become a scapegoat if Indonesia cooperation with Norway unsuccessfully implemented. He also said, “The Government of Indonesia should be conscious, carbon emission reduction is an obligation that must be undertaken by all parties not just the REDD+ agency.”
The performance evaluation of REDD+, also attended by Norway Minister of Climate and the Environment Tine Sundtoft. She appreciates the REDD+ performance until today, “Congratulations for the achievements, Indonesia has made a good move to carbon emission reduction policies and this is positive results.”
Next, Tine said that there will be a lot of challenges and the third stage is a crucial stage. “This is actually a simple cooperation. You do, we pay,” Tine jokes. Januar Hakam