Indonesia is opening Papua to domestic and international investors for community-based carbon projects, leveraging the region's tropical forests for nature-based climate solutions. The government is strengthening regulations, mapping Indigenous land rights, and designing benefit-sharing models to ensure local communities are central to the carbon ecosystem. Velix Wanggai, chairman of the Papua special autonomy acceleration committee, said carbon development is a strategic priority for sustainable growth. Papua has about 1.86 million hectares allocated for social forestry, offering significant potential for community-managed carbon initiatives. Pilot projects across six provinces are being prepared as part of an early implementation program. The initiative aligns with Indonesia's climate commitments and Presidential Regulation No. 110/2025 on Carbon Economic Value Instruments. The government is seeking partnerships with carbon market associations, companies, and local governments to build a transparent investment framework that benefits Indigenous peoples while contributing to national emission reduction targets.
