Jakarta, August 29, 2025 – Methane is a dangerous greenhouse gas due to its impact on climate change. Therefore, better management of methane emissions can help slow the rate of climate change and reduce the negative impact on ecosystems and the global economy.
Moshe Rizal, Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Association of Oil and Gas Companies (ASPERMIGAS), stated that proper methane management is the fastest and most financially profitable way to achieve the Net Zero Emissions (NZE) target by 2060 or sooner. By having a proper plan to reduce methane emissions, you can accelerate the achievement of the NZE emission target while improving operational performance and company profitability.
“Companies that implement emissions management, particularly methane, with robust measurement-based reporting (rather than estimates), will experience various benefits, including cost efficiencies in operations and maintenance. Reducing methane leaks can help create a safer work environment and reduce safety risks for workers. Transparent and measurable emissions management can increase trust from stakeholders, including shareholders, regulators, and customers. By participating in green emissions reduction initiatives, companies not only meet their environmental obligations but also gain financial benefits and a positive reputation,” said Moshe at the Strategic Opportunities for Methane Emission Reduction Workshop in Support of the Second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and Net Zero Emissions Targets organized by the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) on Friday (August 29th).
Meanwhile, Dody Setiawan, Senior Climate and Energy Analyst at Ember Indonesia, stated that there are several challenges in reducing methane emissions. For example, Indonesia’s methane emissions are calculated based on low emission factors (IPCC low) for open-pit mines. However, actual emissions are often higher, primarily because the calculation method still uses a global approach with emission factors that are not specific to Indonesian mining conditions. Therefore, changing this calculation methodology to use emission factors more specific to Indonesian mining conditions could improve the accuracy of emissions calculations.
“The Indonesian government can encourage the implementation of mitigation projects for coal mine methane emissions by designing stricter regulations and attractive incentives for mining companies. An example of an existing policy in other countries is the carbon credit scheme, which could serve as a model for Indonesia. Using this scheme, mining companies that successfully reduce methane emissions can earn tradable carbon credits,” said Dody.
