Experts say the region's next challenge is turning climate commitments into enforceable coal retirement plans that protect people, local communities, and energy security.
Asean’s official energy outlook, endorsed by its energy ministers on 8 October, reveals a gap between the region’s energy plans and its members’ net-zero pledges, and allows new coal plants to be built even in its lowest-emissions scenario.
A wide investment shortfall and weak archipelagic grids hinder efforts to deliver nonstop carbon-free power, particularly for data centres and other industries that need round-the-clock clean electricity, said nonprofit Global Renewables Alliance.
As Malaysia prepares to move from voluntary to mandatory extended producer responsibility (EPR), Annupa Mattu Ahi of Tomra said the success of the country’s recycling transformation will depend on whether policymakers can establish a framework that holds producers accountable while giving businesses the certainty to invest.