Transforming Lives in Indonesia: The Journey to Clean Cooking Fuels
- Timothy Pesi
- Nov 20, 2024
- 2 min read
In the early 2000s, less than 10% of Indonesia's population had access to clean cooking fuels. This figure has now soared to over 80%, a remarkable transformation that highlights the country’s commitment to improving health, reducing air pollution, and fostering sustainable energy practices. This journey, as the data reveals, is not just a testament to policy innovation but also a compelling example of how targeted interventions can yield widespread benefits.
What are Clean Cooking Fuels?
Clean cooking fuels, as defined by the World Health Organization, are those that emit air pollutants below recommended thresholds when burned.
The Road to Cleaner Kitchens in Indonesia
The data reflects a steady increase in access to clean cooking fuels in Indonesia over the past three decades:
1990-2000: The percentage of the population relying on clean fuels grew slowly, from 2.4% in 1990 to 6.7% by 2000.
2000-2006: Momentum began to build, with access rising to 19.7% by 2006.
2007-2021: The period of exponential growth, with a leap from 24.2% in 2007 to 86.9% by 2021.
This progress is largely attributed to the Indonesian government’s decisive actions, particularly its kerosene-to-LPG conversion program launched in 2007.
Key Policy Interventions Driving Change
Indonesia's transition to clean cooking fuels was driven by strategic policies addressing both supply and demand barriers:
Kerosene-to-LPG Conversion Program (2007)
The government phased out kerosene in favor of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), chosen for its cost-effectiveness, cleaner-burning properties, and higher efficiency.
Cash Transfer Programs
To alleviate the economic impact on low-income households, the government introduced the Bantuan Langsun Tunai (BLT) cash transfer program, offering direct support to help families cope with rising fuel prices. This assistance also paved the way for the affordable adoption of cleaner cooking options. - more here by ISSD
Analyzing the Impact: Lessons for a Cleaner, Healthier Future
Indonesia’s shift to clean cooking fuels has yielded impressive results. By 2021, 86.9% of the population had access to clean fuels, up from just 6.7% in 2000.
This change not only reduced indoor air pollution but also improved health outcomes, particularly in respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Economically, redirecting subsidies from kerosene to LPG streamlined spending and supported a more sustainable energy model.
Key lessons for other nations include:
Targeted reforms can drive meaningful change by prioritizing cleaner alternatives.
Social programs like cash transfers ensure vulnerable populations aren’t left behind.
A long-term, consistent policy focus is key to sustained success.
Indonesia’s approach demonstrates the impact of integrated policies in creating healthier, more sustainable futures while advancing economic and social equity.
Comments