CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES AND STRATEGIES TO REDUCE CARBON EMISSIONS: A CASE STUDY OF THE INDONESIA SOCIAL FORESTRY.

This study examines the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for reducing carbon emissions through social forestry initiatives in Indonesia. As one of the world’s largest tropical forest holders, Indonesia has committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2060, supported by policies on renewable energy, carbon trading, and community-based forestry. Using an interpretive qualitative approach, this research applies a case study design with data collected from semi-structured interviews involving company practitioners, social forestry committee members, and academics. The findings highlight five key strategies: (1) the critical role of forests in biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration; (2) the economic empowerment of communities through tree planting and cash crops; (3) the importance of leadership and governance in social forestry organizations; (4) meaningful corporate participation via partnerships, reforestation, and renewable energy investment; and (5) the necessity of clear regulatory frameworks and fair carbon pricing mechanisms. The study concludes that achieving Indonesia’s net zero target requires strong collaboration among government, corporations, and communities, supported by effective governance systems and integration of cultural values in forest management..