Indonesia’s new capital aims to be a net zero model city

When it comes to the climate crisis, what happens in cities around the world has far-reaching consequences for all of us, beyond geographical boundaries. Addressing these challenges requires cities to come up with strong plans to contribute more to achieving net zero goals.

As world leaders descend on Dubai to attend COP28, this year’s biggest and most influential climate change summit, we should amp up our pressure on cities around the world to be at the forefront of this challenge.

By adopting sustainable policies, investing in renewable energy and promoting eco-friendly urban planning, cities have the potential to lead the way in mitigating climate change. Indonesia, a key player, recognizes this tremendous need and plans to leverage the development of Nusantara — scheduled to become the country’s new capital in 2024 — by embracing a net zero emissions strategy.

The paramount role of urban areas in contributing to climate change is undeniable. Take emissions, for example. According to United Nations Habitat, cities consume 78% of the world’s energy and produce more than 60% of greenhouse gasses, despite accounting for less than 2% of the Earth’s surface. Furthermore, the U.N. Environment Programme estimates that buildings in cities consume around 40% of energy globally and contribute approximately one-third of emissions.

Things could get even worse if we don’t revamp development strategies to accommodate the world’s growing urban population. In Indonesia alone, the Asian Development Bank has found that nearly 55% of people live in urban areas. Like in other parts of the world, rapid urbanization has led to overcrowded cities, the emergence of informal settlements, and inadequate access to basic services such as clean water and sanitation.

There is an urgent need for innovative solutions. Indonesia's plan to construct Nusantara, a city designed with the ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2045, demonstrates a commitment to sustainable urban development. We aim to turn this vision into action through the Nusantara Net Zero 2045 Strategy, which was unveiled at COP28.

The strategy focuses on developing eco-friendly infrastructure and renewable energy, implementing efficient transportation systems and maintaining green spaces — with plans for around three-quarters of the future capital to be enveloped in tropical forests and green zones. Through meticulous planning and progressive policies, Nusantara aims to become a pioneering example in addressing the climate crisis for cities worldwide.

Among other strategies, Nusantara will primarily use renewable energy sources, aiming for sustainability in its power supply. Indonesian President Joko Widodo recently inaugurated a 50-megawatt solar power plant that is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 104,000 tons annually. In addition, the city is investing in electric vehicles and public transportation, planning for key locations to be within a 10-minute walk from transit stops — underscoring its dedication to a comprehensive and efficient transport network.

Another key factor is green sustenance. Sustainable cities increasingly rely on local food production, as emphasized by a June 2022 report by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. According to the report, for cities to become sustainable, they should produce at least 30% of their own fruit and vegetables to build resilience and rely less on regions threatened by climate change for their food supply.

Nusantara's Mentawir seedling nursery, covering 120 hectares and producing 15 million seeds annually, exemplifies this trend. These seeds, which include those of fruit plants, will support Nusantara's future food needs, highlighting the importance of urban agriculture in addressing climate challenges.

The city's net zero goal also hinges on engaging its residents through inclusive urban infrastructure and access to green spaces. The future capital is enhancing tech skills among residents by providing solar power training to local groups for women and people with disabilities, and communities are also involved in nature conservation.

It is high time to turn urban areas into climate solutions pioneers, as they are both significant contributors to global warming and vulnerable to its impacts. However, cities also have the resources, infrastructure and political power to implement effective solutions. By embracing sustainable practices, I believe cities will make increasingly stronger contributions to achieving global climate goals.