Indonesia's Mining Sector Embraces Sustainability Amid Climate Change

Indonesia's mining sector is intensifying its focus on sustainable practices as climate change brings more extreme weather. Jorina, Head of Environment Department at AMMAN, stated that compliance with environmental standards is the cornerstone of maintaining sustainable mining operations. She emphasized that compliance goes beyond fulfilling regulations; it forms the basis for robust environmental management systems, encompassing planning, infrastructure, and human resource development.

AMMAN has actively undertaken land reclamation, restoring 859.61 hectares by the end of 2025, including a significant annual achievement of 92.67 hectares in Batu Hijau in 2025. This extensive process involves soil preservation, land structuring, erosion control, planting, and ongoing maintenance. Beyond operational sites, the company has rehabilitated approximately 3,600 hectares of river basins and supports social forestry and marine conservation programs in Gili Balu, demonstrating a commitment to environmental management extending beyond mine boundaries.

To reduce emissions, AMMAN has deployed a 26.8 MWp solar power plant, which has avoided an estimated 34,794 tons of CO2e emissions in 2025 since its operation began in 2022. The company is also developing a 450 MW Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) as part of its energy transition strategy. In water management, AMMAN has established desalination facilities in Benete and Sejorong and is optimizing water reuse to ensure supply security during dry seasons.

Jorina highlighted the crucial role of technology, such as satellite imagery, for rapid and accurate land condition monitoring. However, she stressed that system success ultimately depends on human behavior and commitment. "Environment is a shared responsibility. What makes a system work are people with commitment and consistency," Jorina said. She believes that simple actions like efficient energy and water use, waste reduction, and adherence to work procedures are vital. These efforts collectively represent the industry's response to the escalating pressures of climate change.