GreenFaith Indonesia and the Push for a Just Energy Transition in West Java: Climate Justice as a Collective Responsibility

HUKAMANEWS GreenFaith – As the world grapples with urgent climate change challenges, Indonesia actively contributes to the global movement toward climate justice. Through collaborations with various organizations, faith communities, and governmental bodies, GreenFaith Indonesia (GFI) promotes a transition to cleaner, fairer energy solutions.

Today, Friday, October 25, 2024, GreenFaith Indonesia, in partnership with GreenFaith Japan and WALHI West Java, hosted a dialogue on just energy transition. The event in Bandung featured speakers from the West Java Provincial DPRD, LBH Bandung, academics, Initiative Association representatives, and non-governmental organizations.

In her opening remarks, Hening Parlan, Director of GreenFaith Indonesia, stated that GFI is focused on a fair and responsible energy transition. This effort is not undertaken alone; GFI collaborates with NGOs, community groups, and the government to accelerate Indonesia’s shift toward eco-friendly energy.

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“As people of faith, it is our duty to care for the Earth,” Hening emphasized, highlighting that all religions call on their followers to protect the planet as a shared moral responsibility.

One significant initiative is the planned closure of coal-fired power plants in Indramayu and Cirebon. Success in shutting down these plants could set a powerful example for other countries, demonstrating Indonesia’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

Fletcher Harper, Executive Director of GreenFaith International, explained that GreenFaith is a multi-faith organization focusing on climate justice.

“Climate change is a real global challenge, and we cannot turn a blind eye. The entire global community must face this crisis together,” said Fletcher.

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According to him, climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a moral imperative that all faith communities must address.

Yoshiro Sada, Director of GreenFaith Japan, who joined nine representatives from Japan and Malaysia, shared his insights from visits to Jakarta, Indramayu, and Bandung.

“We learned a lot from this visit. At the Jatayu Community, we saw firsthand the impact of coal power plants on the environment, agriculture, and marine life, which is deeply heartbreaking,” Yoshiro shared, pledging to bring these lessons back to faith institutions in Japan to discuss the development of more sustainable energy solutions.

On the same occasion, Viktor Permana from Padjadjaran University presented recent survey results showing that climate change is now a primary concern for West Java residents ahead of the 2024 regional elections. The survey revealed that 84.1% of respondents support energy transition and hope that local leaders will incorporate clear environmental agendas into their campaigns.

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