Mobile Operators Must Play a Role in Reducing Carbon Emissions

Deputy Minister of Environment Diaz Hendropriyono has reminded mobile operators that they need to play a role in mitigating the impact of climate change by implementing sustainable business practices. “We certainly very much appreciate and strongly encourage companies to go green, because the extraordinary production of emissions to date is making the earth’s temperature increasingly hot,” Diaz said during a press conference for the launch of Telkomsel’s 2025 Sustainability Report in Central Jakarta on Friday. According to him, the involvement of the private sector in environmental protection efforts is becoming increasingly important as the threat of climate change grows, with its impacts already being felt in Indonesia. He explained that data compiled by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates the earth’s average temperature has risen by approximately 1.4 to 1.6 degrees Celsius compared to the pre-Industrial Revolution period. “If it reaches 2 degrees Celsius, this is a matter of extraordinary concern,” he stated. Furthermore, the snow on Puncak Jayawijaya in Papua has been continuously melting in recent years. Amidst these challenges, mobile operators’ steps to reduce their carbon footprint are considered part of the contribution the private sector can make to support national emission reduction targets. Diaz appreciated several initiatives already undertaken by mobile operators, including electronic waste (e-waste) management and SIM card recycling as part of a circular economy. Beyond providing environmental benefits, Diaz assessed that applying sustainable business principles can enhance a company’s future competitiveness. According to him, younger generation consumers are now increasingly considering sustainability aspects when choosing products and services. “By being sustainable, a company’s value will certainly rise. Gen Z is now starting to choose sustainable products, and sustainability aspects are also a consideration in financing,” he said.