The global energy transition has become one of the most urgent priorities of the 21st century, where renewable energy is recognized as a cornerstone for achieving climate neutrality and meeting international climate commitments such as the Paris Agreement. Within this context, industrial plantation forests are increasingly acknowledged as an important contributor to sustainable energy solutions. These forests provide renewable raw materials for bioenergy, biomass, and bio-based industries, offering alternatives to fossil fuels while simultaneously supporting carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation.

In Indonesia, industrial plantation forests hold significant potential not only in addressing domestic and international energy demands but also in driving economic transformation. As one of the countries with vast forest resources and a strong commitment to sustainable forest management, Indonesia is strategically positioned to supply renewable raw materials that can contribute to global energy security. Beyond energy supply, plantation forests can play a vital role in attracting green investment, generating employment opportunities, supporting rural economies, and enhancing the competitiveness of the forestry sector. This aligns directly with the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), and climate action (SDG 13).

Nevertheless, realizing this potential requires enabling policies, strong governance, and collaborative action among government agencies, the private sector, research institutions, and civil society. Sustainable forest - 2 - management practices, transparent supply chains, and effective monitoring systems are critical to ensuring that industrial plantation forests contribute to renewable energy without compromising ecological balance, biodiversity conservation, or social welfare. Furthermore, mobilizing investment in renewable energy from plantation forests must be accompanied by robust safeguards to secure long-term environmental sustainability and community benefits.

This talk show session will serve as a platform to explore the multifaceted role of industrial plantation forests in renewable energy pathways and economic transformation. By bringing together policymakers, experts, investors, and stakeholders, the discussion will highlight opportunities, challenges, and best practices for leveraging plantation forests as a reliable source of renewable raw materials. It will also showcase Indonesia’s efforts in creating sustainable pathways that integrate climate action with economic development, demonstrating how forestry-based renewable energy can contribute to a just and inclusive global energy transition