CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CARBON TRADING IN ACEH

Carbon trading is a market-based mechanism aimed at addressing climate change, which has become an increasingly urgent global issue. Aceh, with its special autonomy and rich natural resources, particularly in oil, gas, and forest areas which holds unique potential to participate in carbon trading. However, institutional fragmentation, lack of public awareness, and regulatory uncertainty continue to hinder the region’s ability to implement a functional carbon trading framework.

This research aims to analyze the authority of the Aceh Oil and Gas Management Agency (BPMA) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) in implementing carbon trading in Aceh. It also seeks to identify the institutional, technical, and societal challenges, while highlighting opportunities that can be leveraged to support sustainable carbon governance in the region.

Using a normative legal research method supported by empirical data, this study draws upon statutory regulations, government policies, and interviews with key stakeholders from BPMA, OJK, researchers from local universities, and the Aceh Environmental and Forestry Agency (DLHK).

The results show that BPMA has a strategic role in regulating Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects under Presidential Regulation No. 14 of 2024, while OJK supervises the operation of the carbon exchange based on the P2SK Law and POJK No. 14 of 2023. Despite challenges such as regulatory overlap, low public engagement, and limited technical infrastructure, Aceh’s ecological and economic landscape makes it well-positioned to become a national leader in carbon trading.

This study recommends stronger coordination between BPMA and OJK, development of regional regulations tailored to Aceh’s special autonomy, and investment in MRV infrastructure and public outreach. With improved synergy, legal clarity, and local capacity-building, Aceh has the potential to transform its environmental assets into long-term climate and economic value.