From Palm Oil to Green Energy: Human Rights and Ecological Dilemmas in Energy Transitions

Abstract

This paper explores the human rights and ecological dilemmas surrounding Indonesia's energy transition, focusing on the shift from palm oil production to green energy solutions. As the world increasingly turns to renewable energy, Indonesia has positioned itself as a key player in both the palm oil industry and the biofuel sector. However, the expansion of palm oil plantations to meet the growing demand for biodiesel has raised significant concerns regarding land rights, deforestation, and the displacement of local communities. By analyzing the complex interplay between economic growth, human rights, and environmental sustainability, this research highlights the unintended consequences of relying on biofuels as a "green" alternative. Through a combination of policy analysis, case studies, and interviews with affected communities, the study reveals that the transition to green energy is often accompanied by increased land conflicts, exploitation of indigenous populations, and accelerated ecological degradation. The paper also critically examines the role of multinational corporations and government policies in shaping the trajectory of Indonesia's energy transition, questioning whether current practices truly promote sustainable development or merely shift the environmental and social burdens from one sector to another. This research contributes to the broader debate on energy transitions, offering insights into how seemingly sustainable solutions may perpetuate existing human rights and ecological challenges. The study calls for a more holistic approach to energy policy, one that balances economic, ecological, and social considerations to ensure a just and truly sustainable future.