Indonesia Slashes 44 Million Tons of CO₂ Emissions Through B50 Biodiesel

Indonesia has cut 44 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) equivalent through the implementation of B50 biodiesel, placing the country among the world’s leaders in carbon emissions reduction, President Prabowo Subianto said.

“Today is a historic day. The world is talking about us. Why? Because we are leading the way in reducing carbon emissions. They know we have the B50 program. How much have we reduced our emissions? 44 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. We have cut 44 million tons,” said the President at the launch of the B50 Biodiesel program, “A Concrete Step Toward National Energy Independence and Security,” at the KM57 Rest Area in Karawang regency, West Java province, on Thursday (07/09).

President Prabowo underscored that the success in advancing the energy transition through the B50 Biodiesel program has strengthened Indonesia’s global standing.

“I wanted to be here today because this is a day we can all be proud of. It is a milestone that will be remembered, and it has already captured the world’s attention. Even I am surprised to hear world leaders talking about Indonesia, asking, ‘How has Indonesia succeeded? Why isn’t Indonesia panicking? Why hasn’t Indonesia raised fuel prices for the people?” he said.

The President called on all elements of the nation to take greater pride in the country’s achievements as a critical foundation for strengthening confidence and competitiveness on the global stage.

“Perhaps this is due to being colonized for so long by the Dutch and other foreign powers. What was left was not humility but inferiority. Minderwertigkeitskomplex. Inferiority complex. We must correct that,” he said.

The success of this B50 program, the President further said, serves as a foundation for Indonesia’s major steps in accelerating the transition to clean energy. The Government is also pushing for the development of new and renewable energy to fortify national energy security and improve Indonesia’s competitiveness globally.

“Imagine when world leaders also know that we are going to build 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity, 100 gigawatts. This year, the State Electricity Company (PLN) will start with 17 gigawatts. We aim to reach 100 gigawatts within two years,” he added.

In addition, the President also stated that every breakthrough inevitably faces criticism and scepticism. However, he emphasized that the Government will continue striving to deliver solutions for the people through collaborative efforts while continuing strategic policies that bring lasting benefits to the nation.

“It is important that our hearts are sincere. We work for the nation. We work for the people. Seek the solutions. Seek the solutions to ease the burdens of the people,” he said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (FI/MMB)