At COP30, Indonesia, alongside fellow tropical peatland-rich nations like the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo, once again affirmed the spirit of the Brazzaville Declaration 2018. This pivotal declaration underscores the protection of tropical peatlands as a critical global priority, recognizing their immense value in climate regulation and biodiversity.
Taking a leading role, Indonesia has been a strong advocate for accelerating the operationalization of the International Tropical Peatland Centre (ITPC). Envisioned as a global hub for peatland action, the ITPC is crucial for driving the protection, conservation, and restoration efforts vital for these unique ecosystems.
According to Indonesia’s Minister of Environment, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, strengthening the ITPC offers a comprehensive approach to safeguarding peatlands and enhancing community well-being. This is achieved by effectively bridging the realms of science, policy, and financing, ensuring a coordinated global response to the challenges faced by these vulnerable landscapes.
“Peatlands are incredibly powerful natural carbon stores. Protecting them is not merely an ecological responsibility but a moral obligation that demands immediate, collective action and a forward-looking vision,” stated Minister Hanif at the Indonesia Pavilion during COP30 in Brazil, on Tuesday, November 18.
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Minister Hanif further highlighted Indonesia’s significant strides in peatland protection, positioning the nation as home to one of the world’s most extensive tropical peatland ecosystems. These advancements encompass a range of vital initiatives, including hydrological restoration, comprehensive rehabilitation, rewetting techniques, and replanting efforts, all contributing to the health and resilience of these crucial areas.
To solidify its commitment, Indonesia has already set up the ITPC Interim Secretariat in Jakarta and completed essential foundational documents, such as the Establishment Agreement, Host Country Agreement, and Rules of Procedure. Furthermore, strategic partnerships have been forged with several UN-affiliated organizations. These collaborations are integral to strengthening the ITPC’s technical readiness and securing necessary funding, representing key steps towards fully operationalizing the center and maximizing its global impact.
Engaging with the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo
During COP30, Indonesia also conducted crucial bilateral meetings with the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These discussions aimed to ensure alignment among the founding nations of the ITPC and to collectively extend invitations to other peatland-owning countries, encouraging them to join this vital collaborative platform for enhanced global peatland protection.
Marie Nyange Ndambo, the Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development, and New Climate Economy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, underscored the paramount importance of global collaboration in these efforts. “For nations like ours, blessed with vast peatland and forest landscapes, the responsibility to unite and protect these precious areas rests squarely in our hands, for the benefit of our people and the entire world,” she affirmed, emphasizing the shared global imperative.
