COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan marked a pivotal moment in global climate action, with the adoption of international standards for carbon crediting under Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement. This milestone is a significant step towards the development of centralised carbon markets, designed to direct essential resources to developing nations while accelerating global climate efforts.
Centred on climate finance, the event brought together nearly 200 countries. APP Group hosted three sessions that highlighted key aspects of Indonesia’s climate strategy, shared insights from its sustainability initiatives, and advocated for multi-stakeholder partnerships to drive significant environmental progress.
Below are the key takeaways from the event to guide global sustainability efforts.
1. Partnerships are the backbone of progress
On November 13, Ms. Elim Sritaba, Chief Sustainability Officer of APP, along with Ir. Noer Adi Wardojo from the Directorate of Climate Change Control, opened her first session on Collaborating for Climate Action and Driving Sustainable Progress by emphasising the power of partnerships in advancing climate goals. Drawing on APP’s initiatives—such as investments in renewable energy, water efficiency, and community programs—Elim highlighted how private sector contributions can create scalable and lasting impact.
The panel discussed strategies for aligning corporate sustainability efforts with international frameworks, focusing on inclusivity and accountability. They explored how the private sector can help turn climate commitments into tangible outcomes.
Elim further illustrated APP’s approach to sustainability by detailing its Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030, which is built on three core pillars: decarbonising production with a goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, implementing sustainable forest management, and fostering community engagement through programmes like the DMPA initiative which was launched in 2015.
She stressed the importance of substantial investments, including nearly $200 million USD for integrated forest fire management and $10 million USD for community programmes benefiting 441 villages. Highlighting the role of collaboration, Elim noted, “We can’t address all challenges alone, so we collaborate with expert partners to mitigate risks and drive meaningful impact,” reinforcing the necessity of partnerships to achieve shared climate and sustainability goals.
2. Breaking new ground in climate finance
In her second session on Investing in a Green Tomorrow through Energy Transition, Elim, alongside Geoffrey Seeto from New Forests, Dharsono Hartono from the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), and Clea Kaske-Kuck from WBCSD, explored the financial and policy challenges of transitioning to a low-carbon economy, particularly in Indonesia. The discussion highlighted the need for innovative financing solutions, such as green bonds and climate finance, to drive decarbonisation while ensuring inclusivity.
Elim outlined APP’s approach to mobilising resources for sustainable energy transitions, highlighting the critical role of partnerships between governments, businesses, and financial institutions. She noted that decarbonisation is not merely a target, but a collective responsibility that requires bold investments and coordinated action. The session provided actionable insights for stakeholders, from policy recommendations to strategies for scaling green investments.
3. Nature provides key solutions to climate resilience
Jasmine Prihartini Doloksaribu, APP’s Head of Landscape Conservation & Environment, led a session on mangrove conservation, highlighting their vital role in combating climate change and enhancing coastal resilience. She was joined by experts, including Wening Wulandari from the Centre for Standardisation of Sustainable Forest Management Instruments, Natalia Rialucky from Fairatmos, and Vinay Singh from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
“Mangroves are not just carbon sinks—they are lifelines for coastal communities,” Jasmine explained, underscoring the dual environmental and social impact of such initiatives.
The greener path forward
The key discussions at COP29 highlighted the importance of collective action in shaping a sustainable future. From advancing climate finance to innovating financing solutions and leveraging nature-based strategies, the event highlighted how collaboration across sectors is essential to drive real progress.
APP is proud to stand at the forefront of these efforts, working continuously to build a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for everyone.