Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country and home to the third largest surviving area of tropical forests, is on the brink of significant environmental challenges with the upcoming presidency of Prabowo Subianto. With a background in the military and a promise to double GDP growth through expanded mining and industrial development, Prabowo’s election has sparked concerns among environmentalists.
The country is already experiencing a mining boom, particularly in nickel production, a metal crucial for electric vehicle batteries. However, most of Indonesia’s nickel mines are located beneath rainforests and are powered by coal-burning plants, leading to environmental degradation. A recent study by Mighty Earth revealed that over a third of forests in Sulawesi are within nickel mining concession areas.
Prabowo’s plans to further expand mining and refining operations have raised alarms among conservationists. His history of human rights abuses and past association with coal-mining activities have heightened concerns about the future of Indonesia’s forests under his leadership.
While some believe that Western investors could leverage more sustainable development practices in Indonesia, others fear a surge in deforestation and environmental damage under Prabowo’s administration. As Indonesia struggles with rising greenhouse gas emissions and ongoing deforestation, the fate of the country’s rainforests hangs in the balance with the incoming presidency. Investors and automakers will play a crucial role in determining whether economic growth can be achieved without sacrificing the environment.
