Climate change remains one of Indonesia’s most pressing strategic challenges, with far-reaching consequences for the environment, society, and the economy. Rising global temperatures, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, changing weather patterns, sea level rise, and the growing frequency of natural disasters highlight the urgency of implementing effective and sustainable climate action.
In Indonesia, the impacts of climate change extend beyond environmental degradation. Deforestation, biodiversity loss, declining ecosystem resilience, and disruptions to water, land, and marine resources directly affect the livelihoods of communities, particularly those who depend heavily on natural resources. These challenges underscore the need for comprehensive public policies that integrate environmental sustainability with social and economic development.
From a public administration perspective, effective climate governance requires strong leadership and strategic change management. One relevant framework is the CLARC Model of Change Leadership, which identifies five essential leadership roles: Communicator, Liaison, Advocate, Resistance Manager, and Coach. As communicators, leaders must raise public awareness about the urgency of climate action. As liaisons, they should strengthen collaboration with international organizations, governments, and stakeholders to address global environmental challenges. As advocates, they are expected to support and implement policies that promote environmental protection, sustainable resource management, and greenhouse gas emission reduction.
Furthermore, leaders must act as resistance managers by addressing opposition from stakeholders whose interests may conflict with environmental sustainability, while balancing economic development and ecological preservation. Finally, as coaches, leaders should empower communities, businesses, and public institutions by promoting environmentally responsible behavior, encouraging innovation, and providing guidance on sustainable practices.
Implementing climate change policies, however, is not without challenges. Limited public awareness, resistance from industries with high environmental impacts, resource constraints, differing national priorities, and political uncertainty may hinder the implementation of effective environmental policies. Addressing these challenges requires transparent communication, constructive dialogue, stakeholder collaboration, and evidence-based policymaking.
Strengthening partnerships among government institutions, civil society organizations, academia, environmental experts, and local communities is essential for developing inclusive and sustainable climate solutions. Public education and community participation also play a critical role in fostering environmental stewardship and encouraging collective action toward sustainability.
By embracing strategic leadership, collaborative governance, and effective change management, Indonesia can strengthen its resilience to climate change while promoting sustainable development that benefits both present and future generations.
Bachelor of Public Administration Program
Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
Parahyangan Catholic University