Jakarta. Efforts to realize net-zero emissions (NZE) in the mining sector are still progressing rather slowly. This contrasts with the oil and gas sector, which has already begun decarbonization initiatives by implementing technologies such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) in its operations.

Komaidi Notonegoro, Executive Director of the Reforminer Institute, explained that this is partly due to the absence of a dedicated regulatory body overseeing mining operations. In contrast, the oil and gas sector has the Special Task Force for Upstream Oil and Gas Business Activities, known as SKK Migas.

Komaidi further noted that such a regulatory body would be responsible for closely and specifically supervising business activities as a whole, monitoring concessions, and ensuring safety and environmental compliance. Naturally, this would also steer the mining industry more clearly toward achieving its NZE goals.

"In the mining sector, NZE efforts are lagging behind. Ironically, the oil and gas sector is actually more advanced. Their processes are already in good shape, but for mining, control is generally more difficult," said Komaidi at the Energy and Mineral Festival held at Hutan Kota Plataran, Jakarta, on Wednesday.

"In oil and gas, there is SKK Migas, but in mining, there's no such body. Mining companies only obtain a permit from the government, and once they have it, there’s no further supervision," he added.

Komaidi went on to say that there are two main factors contributing to the high emissions in the mining sector. First is deforestation or land clearing, which has a significant impact on emissions. Second, mining production activities still rely on vehicles and power generators that produce high emissions.

In terms of adopting low-emission mining vehicles, regulations are still quite loose. This is largely due to the lack of clear rules regarding the use of vehicles with low emission output, such as those complying with Euro 4 standards.

As a result, many industry players continue to use operational vehicles with lower emission standards, since fuel for these vehicles tends to be cheaper.

Therefore, in order to realize NZE in the mining sector, clear regulations are needed -- one of which should address the use of low-emission transport in mining operations.

"I think we need to push more firmly for the strict implementation of existing policies, and if necessary, even enhance them further," Komaidi concluded.