Tag: 3BL

By Sheila Chelimo, Ph.D, Carmen Cortez, Jessica K. Jackson and D’Andre J. Weaver, Ph.D

Key Ideas

The Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program has led to an unintended impact: improved job satisfaction and increased opportunities for career advancement for teachers and coaches at participating schools.Irving Independent School District was the initial inspiration for our research, which revealed that similar impact is being experienced in districts nationwide.Our new white paper investigates these unintended effects in the context of six participating school districts across the country.

Verizon Innovative Learning Schools began in 2014 to help bridge barriers to digital inclusion. The partnership between Verizon and Digital Promise provides devices with data plans to every student and teacher at participating schools; this always-available access enables learning to occur both in and outside the classroom. The program also provides professional learning opportunities and support for instructional technology coaches to help teachers effectively blend technology into learning activities.

The program’s focus on extensive training for coaches and their work with teachers has produced its intended results—teachers’ confidence to use the technology, the frequency of its use, and their perceived technological skills and proficiency all increased over time. As a result, surveyed teachers said the program helped them explore new ways of teaching and enhanced student engagement.

But leaders at Digital Promise and Verizon began to notice something else happening, as well: Teachers and coaches in Verizon Innovative Learning Schools experienced increased opportunities for career advancement and improved job satisfaction.

Our new white paper investigates these unintended impacts in the context of six participating school districts and suggests why these effects have significance beyond the individual coaches and teachers themselves.

Verizon Innovative Learning Schools prepared me for my new position because it provided me with my first opportunity to step into and develop the skills for a coaching and quasi-leadership position.

Elizabeth Majano
Educational Technology Supervisor, Newark Public Schools

Irving Independent School District in Texas served as the inspiration for our research—“We lose coaches to jobs inside and outside the district all the time,” said James Tiggeman, Irving ISD’s director of STEM and innovation and Verizon Innovative Learning Schools district lead. More than half of the district’s educators who have served as coaches in the program since 2017 “have been promoted to new positions,” he said. And while job satisfaction is harder to tangibly measure, Tiggeman said teachers and coaches have often told him they might have quit “if they had not received the support that Verizon Innovative Learning Schools offered.”

A similar impact is being felt in other districts nationwide. Fifty-nine percent of surveyed teachers from Miami-Dade County Public Schools (Florida) and Jefferson County Public Schools (Kentucky) say the program provides leadership opportunities for them, and 61 percent said participating in Verizon Innovative Learning Schools improved their job satisfaction.

Our interviews with teachers and coaches revealed three reasons for their increased job satisfaction:

The availability and effective use of technology impacts job satisfaction.Increased student engagement leads to better job satisfaction.The Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program creates better work-life balance.

While not every Verizon Innovative Learning Schools teacher or coach will ride the program to new job opportunities, we are encouraged that so many will carry the skills they have developed through the program with them wherever they go—or continue to enrich their communities where they are.

Read our new white paper, Unintended Impact: How the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools Program Affected Its Educators’ Job Satisfaction and Career Trajectories, to find out how the program improves job satisfaction and prepares coaches and teachers for new career opportunities, and learn how your school or district can join Verizon Innovative Learning Schools.

Originally published on Newsweek

2024 Legacy of Disruption Winner
Tom Doll, Former CEO of Subaru of America

Tom Doll changed the way Subaru operates. During a 40-year tenure at the automaker, he worked to develop some of the best-known vehicles and marketing campaigns in the automotive world. His hands helped to mold Subaru into the quirky, inclusive brand it is today. But, his legacy is even larger.

Doll touched the lives of Subaru employees, past and present, showing grace, confidence, compassion and appreciation in ways that elicit respect and changed the way the CEO role is viewed in the workplace.

Click here to continue reading on Newsweek.

Originally published in GoDaddy’s 2023 Sustainability Report

Our People-Centered Strategy

By valuing individuality, we grow together.

We’re building a culture that values diversity and prioritizes making opportunity inclusive for all. We know this fosters both a more successful work environment and global community.

Diverse representation not only makes GoDaddy a better place to work, but it also makes us more innovative, creative, and competitive. Our employees’ different viewpoints and life experiences help us improve our products and reach more people. Empowering a diverse range of entrepreneurs in our communities also strengthens society at large.

We want to foster a human-centered community that empowers our employees and their families. We do this by embedding Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) principles into our strategy, focusing on fostering an environment supportive of diverse representation in recruitment, evaluating our practices to maintain parity, and building an inclusive company culture. We’re also committed to maintaining pay parity for all employees.1

An Integrated Strategy 

We believe integrating inclusive and equitable principles into the core of how we work every day is the best way to fulfill our mission. That starts with our company values, which are inextricably tied to everything we do for our customers and how we treat each other. We also recognize that diversity helps fuel inclusion, which in turn helps power equitable workplaces and enables belonging.

Our objective is to further integrate, engage, and expand DEIB principles throughout GoDaddy by fostering inclusive behaviors and refining systems and processes through a lens of equity. We developed a multiyear strategic roadmap to continually implement our objectives and govern, support, and enable these company-wide priorities.

In 2023, our progress on this work included developing gender transition resources to support our transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse employees. We also continued to use structured ways to analyze and discuss demographic data, held a training to enable psychological safety and inclusive engagement among our teams, and launched a DEIB speaker and conversation series.

Driven by Accountability

Building an inclusive and equitable workforce requires accountability and transparency. In 2023, we launched a DEIB Steering Committee to help govern, support, and enable our DEIB efforts. The Committee is comprised of senior leaders who discuss our DEIB strategy and plans, with a focus on achieving balanced representation and equitable employee experience. The DEIB Steering Committee provides support through feedback, intervention, and advocacy to our Board, their peers, our teams, and their partners.

Another way we reaffirmed our commitment to accountability was by signing onto the CEO Action for Diversity and InclusionTM pledge in 2023. Through this initiative, we pledge to advance DEIB in the workplace and create a more inclusive culture while embracing having difficult conversations.

To enable accountability, we commit to transparency. We continually analyze and share our diversity and pay equity data through reports like this to ensure we’re on track to achieve our objectives and identify areas for improvement.

It’s an ongoing journey, and we’re in it for the long haul.

Awards and Honors

Human Rights Campaign 
Participated in Corporate Equality Index for the fifth year in a rowWomen Impact in Tech 
2023 List of 100 Progressive Companies Empowering Women in Tech

To learn more, read our 2023 Sustainability Report.

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About this Report 

The GoDaddy 2023 Sustainability Report details our progress toward our corporate sustainability goals, strategies, and initiatives in support of our overarching corporate mission and values. Unless otherwise noted, this report reflects our corporate sustainability performance across our global operations covering the fiscal year period from January 1 to December 31, 2023. To demonstrate our commitment to transparent communication regarding our sustainability progress, we routinely share updates through our website and our annual Sustainability Report. We welcome your questions, comments, and feedback on this report by contacting ESG@GoDaddy.com.

This report references the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards and includes select Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) metrics for the Internet Media and Services sector. We also disclose our contributions and progress toward priority UN SDGs. For additional information on how we align with these frameworks and key indicators demonstrating our sustainability performance, please review the Frameworks and Metrics section.

1We define achievement of pay parity as pay that is equal to, or a few cents on either side of, a dollar.

Authored by Robert Moczulewski, Talwinder Kang

On April 29, 2024, the IRS published Notice 2024-36, which provided further guidance and clarifications on the procedures for allocating credits under the section 48C qualifying advanced energy project credit program. This notice announces the second allocation round (Round 2) of the program, continuing the framework established by Notices 2023-18 and 2023-44, which initially set up the program with a $10 billion credit provision, including $4 billion specifically for projects in Energy Communities Census Tracts (Energy Communities). Round 2 aims to allocate the remaining $6 billion, with about $2.5 billion reserved for Energy Communities.

For Round 2, taxpayers are required to submit concept papers via the Qualified Advanced Energy Project Credit Program Applicant Portal (48C Portal), managed by the Department of Energy (DOE) by June 21, 2024. Upon submission, the DOE will review and either encourage or discourage further applications based on the project’s merits. A successful concept paper leads to the submission of a joint application for DOE recommendation and IRS certification. The deadline for submitting these applications is set to 50 calendar days after DOE begins the acceptance period for the section 48C(e) application, typically shortly following the encouragement or discouragement letter from the DOE is delivered. Only applicants who submitted the concept papers can submit the section 48C(e) application. The IRS plans to finalize all decisions for Round 2 by Jan. 15, 2025.

This round follows the initial allocation where approximately $4 billion was distributed, with $1.5 billion going to projects in Energy Communities. The procedures for Round 2 largely mirror those of Round 1 but include updated appendices that supersede those from Notice 2023-44. These appendices detail necessary application information and eligibility criteria.

The updated guidelines also cover the process for projects that fail to receive an allocation in Round 1, noting that these are still eligible for consideration in Round 2. The notice emphasizes the importance of meeting the DOE’s criteria for a project’s commercial viability and alignment with advanced energy goals. The full implementation and regulatory details of the program, including impacts of previous legislation and specific requirements for qualifying projects, are outlined to ensure applicants understand the comprehensive framework and deadlines associated with the 48C credit allocation.

Overall, Notice 2024-36 modifies and amplifies prior notices, particularly Notice 2023-44, ensuring that applicants have clear guidance on the application process and the program’s objectives aimed at promoting advanced energy projects.

Where to go from here?

While there is a tight timeline for section 48C Round 2, Baker Tilly’s team of Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) specialists can streamline the process by guiding the organization through the necessary application steps. Baker Tilly assists with concept paper feedback, supports in preparing the full application in the meantime, assist with the letters of encouragement review process and then manage the full application process moving forward.

Connect with an 48C and IRA specialists or learn more about Baker Tilly’s section 48C tax credit solutions.

Originally published on NRG Insights

By NRG Editorial Voices

Culture in Focus is a series highlighting the people and culture that make us who we are. As we continue to advance, we understand the importance of not only sharing our journey, but also the values that drive us. Through these conversations, we want to pull back the curtain on our vibrant culture to showcase the stories that power our purpose.

Part two of our series features Dak Liyanearachchi, Chief Data and Technology Officer.

Born in Sri Lanka, Liyanearachchi lived in the U.K. until just over eight years ago when he moved to the U.S. In another life he would have been an acoustic guitar player, but in this one he’s a deep thinker, Beyoncé and Becky Hill fan, and occasional hang glider.

To him, “The simplest way to talk about what I do, is to say ‘I look after data and technology’,” yet he does so much more. From encouraging curiosity to building a culture that promotes continuous learning, Liyanearachchi is setting the stage for growth at NRG.

Building trust through transparency

At NRG, trust and open communication are the pillars of a successful culture. These two tenets are particularly important when collaborating across teams, a process that occurs here every day. In his third year with the company, Liyanearachchi is no stranger to using transparency and connection as a vehicle to drive that trust and open communication in his role.

“For me it’s around how do I support you and how do I make you successful? The trust comes from being open, transparent, and creating connection. Connection is really important because it breaks down barriers.”

These practices facilitate smoother conversations, guarantee that everyone’s voice is heard, and streamline problem solving. Our company’s continuous growth is propelling us toward a common purpose, and open communication will be the key to achieving that. While silos foster division, collaborative teams create room for diverse perspectives and better outcomes. By bolstering a connected culture, we’re building a solid foundation for future innovation.

Permission to fail

No question is a dumb question. In fact, Liyanearachchi would prefer you ask him about something as many times as it takes until you understand it. This value of psychological safety is one that is shared by many at NRG.

Liyanearachchi advocates for creating an environment where everyone feels safe enough to fail. This mindset provides an open space for teammates to excel, while also promoting the curiosity and perseverance they need to keep trying.

“I try and push the teams by empowering them to take some of those decisions. To do that, I have to be comfortable that everything may not work out the way we want it to. My ask of the teams is fail fast, but ask questions if you don’t understand.”

At NRG, we believe success is a journey of trial and error. Through our triumphs and reworks, one thing has remained constant — having team support along the way makes it that much more impactful when we finally achieve our goals.

There’s always room for improvement

There’s no growth in stagnation. To Liyanearachchi, learning and growing is a unique journey with no finish line — in his own words, you’ve got to, “keep putting your hand up to learn more and do more.” That’s why we’re always eager to listen, adapt, and evolve at NRG — it’s how we stay in tune with our customers’ needs.

“From an improvement perspective there’s plenty of growth. In terms of opportunities, we are evolving from a traditional energy company to a consumer company. If you ask how many companies have done that, I’m not sure there are many.”

As the world continues to modernize and technology becomes smarter, our teams are understanding every day what it means and what it takes to power a brighter future together.

Want to connect with Dak? Visit his LinkedIn.

Did you miss the first installment of the Culture in Focus series? Read more about NRG’s CFO Bruce Chung.

Stay tuned for the next installment of the Culture in Focus series.

At Comcast NBCUniversal, we recognize that military service is a commitment made by entire families, not just those in uniform. This past Military Spouse Appreciation Day, we were proud to honor the incredible sacrifices of military spouses and celebrate our teammates who are driving meaningful change for the military community.

Ami Camara: Charting a Path for Success in the Corporate World

As Comcast’s inaugural Military Spouse Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) Fellow, Ami Camara has not only advanced her career but also set a path for others to follow in her footsteps. Her story, marked by frequent relocations and the overarching demands of military life, reflects the reality many military spouses face as they struggle to maintain continuity in their professional lives.

“This fellowship has been a transformative experience for me, opening doors to opportunities I once thought were out of my reach,” Camara said. “For years, I had to put my career aspirations on hold to support my husband’s service, often turning down promising job offers and leaving positions I loved. But now, at Comcast, I’ve found a supportive environment that truly understands and accommodates the unique challenges of being a military spouse.”

“As I continue to build my career here, I hope my journey inspires other military spouses to pursue their own professional goals, knowing that with the right support, they too can succeed,” she added.

Following her fellowship, Camara transitioned into a permanent role as Customer Project Manager. She also looks forward to joining Comcast’s Veterans Network (VetNet) employee resource group, where she can mentor and support military spouses like herself.

Mona Dexter: Leading by Example

Mona Dexter serves as the Vice President of Military and Veteran Affairs at Comcast NBCUniversal. As a former military spouse and the mother of a service member, she has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by military families. Her leadership and insight are invaluable in shaping our company’s efforts to support this community.

“Military spouses are often overlooked in the workforce due to confusing resumes and frequent career breaks. Despite being highly educated and skilled, we face a staggering unemployment rate of over 20%, which is nearly four times higher than the national average,” Dexter said. “It’s essential that we recognize the value of military spouses in the workplace and provide opportunities that foster inclusivity and growth.”

Under Dexter’s guidance, Comcast NBCUniversal has continued to lead the way in corporate advocacy for military spouses. Notably, in 2023, we were among the nation’s first employers to endorse the HOH and Blue Star Families’ 4+1 Commitment. We also renewed our commitment to the Department of Defense’s Military Spouse Employment Partnership and sponsored the Society for Human Resource Management’s new guidebook, MISSION-READY, which outlines strategies and best practices for hiring and empowering military-connected talent.

Lucy Bustamante: A Voice for Veterans and Their Families

Lucy Bustamante, an Emmy-winning news anchor and journalist for NBC10 and Telemundo62, channels her passion for advocacy into her reporting. As the spouse of a Navy veteran, she brings authenticity and urgency to her coverage of issues that impact the military community.

“The strength of our military is as much about remembering the needs of those who support at home as those who serve overseas,” Bustamante said. “For me, it’s about more than reporting—it’s about making an impact on a not always understood community. I’m honored to share the stories of our nation’s service members and their families. There is so much to translate.”

Bustamante created the “American Vets” reporting series, where she and the teams at NBC Philadelphia and NBC News dive deep into issues such as mental health, veteran homelessness, and accessing benefits. Her work not only raises awareness but also presses for necessary social changes and support systems that can improve the lives of veterans.

As a recognized Military Spouse Friendly® Employer, Comcast NBCUniversal is committed to creating an environment where military spouses can thrive. We offer several benefits and supportive programs, including Military Spouse Transfer Assistance and a dedicated Military Concierge service, designed to foster professional growth and stability.

Through initiatives led by advocates like Mona Dexter and the visibility raised by voices like Lucy Bustamante, we continue to set a high standard for corporate support of military families. Meanwhile, trailblazers like Ami Camara exemplify the potential for personal and professional growth when such support is available.

On this special day and every day, we honor the critical role military spouses play in their communities and at Comcast NBCUniversal.

Pepco | The Source

Our Pepco teams recently achieved a significant milestone in the Capital Grid project with the successful upgrade and energization of Pepco’s Harvard substation. This work marks a crucial step toward enhancing the reliability of the local energy grid, supporting the growth of renewable energy and enabling more economic development in the region.

The Harvard substation was built in 1907 and has served the area for more than 100 years. While well maintained, some equipment was very old and approaching the end of its intended service life. Upgrades to the substation included installing high-capacity transformers and feeders and modernizing equipment, connecting the substation to a new networked system, and improving the substation exterior while reflecting community input and preserving historical significance. With the flip of a switch, power now flows through the upgraded substation, illuminating homes and businesses and paving the way for a more resilient future.

This achievement is the result of hard work, innovation, and strong collaboration with the local community. Learn more about the project in this video.

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

As a native Spanish speaker who was born in Ecuador and came with her family to the United States when she was two months old, Mayra Riera said she has long had a desire to help people in the Hispanic community and found that working in banking was a great way to do it.

“My mom didn’t speak English and didn’t know anything about financial literacy when I was growing up,” said Riera, who is based in Minneapolis. “When my younger brothers were in middle school, she got a job and opened her first bank account for herself. Helping her with that piqued my interest and it’s the main reason I started working in banking.”

Riera has been working in the financial services industry since 2008, starting as a teller and working in other roles that included underwriter, personal loan originator and personal banker, most recently for a community bank based in Iowa.

When she heard that U.S. Bank was hiring bilingual people to learn to be mortgage loan officers, Riera jumped at the opportunity.

“I was really intrigued,” she said. “I want to be able to help the Hispanic community and give them more financial knowledge so they can reach their goals.”

Riera joined U.S. Bank as one of 11 people in the cohort being trained for mortgage loan officer positions as part of the bank’s Access Home initiative, which is part of U.S. Bank Access Commitment®, the bank’s long-term approach to help close the wealth gap for underserved communities, including communities of color. Access Commitment initially focused on the Black community, and expanded to include the Hispanic community last year, where the wealth gaps are the largest.

“The Hispanic community has a disproportionate rate of homeownership in the U.S.,” said Sodi Nichols, head of national diverse markets and affordable lending. “By having bilingual mortgage loan officers who speak both English and Spanish, we can better serve the Hispanic community and help provide greater access to homeownership.

“The vision for us is to invest the time and resources needed to welcome new-to-industry, future sales leaders to U.S. Bank,” she said. “This aligns with our public commitment to increase representation in mortgage sales.”

Some of the cohort members came from other positions within U.S. Bank while many of them came from outside the company, Nichols said. They will participate in a yearlong training and development program.

“After that, they will be well-positioned to be successful, high-producing mortgage loan officers for the organization,” Nichols said.

Riera said she has enjoyed the program so far and is excited to begin working with Hispanic customers.

“I worked as an interpreter for patients at a medical center once but wasn’t cut out for it because I was only allowed to repeat what doctors or nurses were saying and wasn’t allowed to give advice to people when I wanted to,” she said. “Now I will be able to provide people with financial literacy and help give them the tools they need in order to buy homes.”

By Sandrine Duquerroy-Delesalle

With six weeks to go before the European Elections, MEPs have had a busy week in Strasbourg, with many texts on the agenda for the final plenary session of the legislature (2019-2024) ! 

Among the texts voted was the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation PWR. And even if it is not the final step in the legislative process, it signs the end of a long negotiating process ! Among the notable new obligations, Member States will need to ensure that >90% of beverage cans are collected separately by 2029 (via deposit-return systems or other solutions that ensure the collection target is met).  

A lot of other important texts were adopted this week among which:

The Net-Zero Industry Act NZIA to bolster EU production in technologies needed for decarbonisation,The new Corporate Due Diligence Directive CDDD, requiring firms and their upstream and downstream partners, including supply, production and distribution to prevent, end or mitigate their adverse impact on human rights and the environment,A new law to reduce air pollution in the EU to achieve a clean and healthy environment for citizens as well as zero air pollution by 2050. 

An important week for the EU on its pathway to a cleaner, greener and more competitive future! 

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240419IPR20589/new-eu-rules-to-reduce-reuse-and-recycle-packaging

View original content here.

A global challenge, a regional response

As the world celebrates World Ocean Day 2024, Indonesia takes center stage for its pioneering efforts towards sustainable shipping. This archipelagic nation, the world’s largest with over 18,110 islands (Adyasari et al., 2021), faces a challenge echoed across the globe: balancing the economic importance of a thriving maritime industry with the environmental responsibility to protect our oceans. 

Within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a region heavily reliant on maritime trade, the need for sustainable shipping practices is particularly acute. The busy shipping lanes of the South China Sea and the Malacca Strait serve as vital arteries for commerce, connecting not only ASEAN nations but also Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. However, these same routes raise concerns about environmental pollution. Recognizing this shared challenge, ASEAN member states have begun collaborative efforts to promote sustainable maritime practices, from cleaner fuels to improved waste management. Indonesia’s leadership in this area positions it as a key player in fostering a more sustainable future for global shipping.

Indonesia is a prime example of a nation taking decisive action. Bustling ports like Tanjung Perak in Surabaya, East Java, exemplify the vibrancy of its maritime industry. However, conventional shipping practices also pose a significant threat to the very resources that fuel Indonesia’s economic success. Pollution from shipping activities, particularly in busy straits like Malacca, can harm delicate coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass meadows – ecosystems that not only support marine biodiversity but also act as vital carbon sinks (Adyasari et al., 2021). Recognizing this critical link, Indonesia is charting a course for a sustainable future by pioneering innovative approaches to shipping.

A strategic hub in the booming Southeast Asian market

Indonesia’s strategic location within Southeast Asia, a region experiencing a boom in manufacturing and retail, further emphasizes the importance of sustainable shipping. Given its geographical position, any ship sailing within the ASEAN region is likely to navigate Indonesian waters. This centrality makes Indonesia’s leadership in sustainable shipping even more crucial.

Indonesia’s vast archipelago, stretching across the equator from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, grants it a unique geographical advantage (Adyasari et al., 2021). With a coastline exceeding 81,000 kilometers, Indonesia boasts numerous strategic straits, like the Malacca Strait, a vital global trade route connecting the Indian Ocean with the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea (CIA World Factbook, 2024). This strategic positioning makes Indonesia a gateway for global trade, with a significant portion of the world’s maritime traffic funneling through its waters (UNCTAD, 2023).

Indonesia’s membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) strengthens its position as a maritime hub. ASEAN, a regional economic bloc with a combined GDP exceeding $3.3 trillion (ASEANstats, 2024), fosters collaboration and integration amongst member states. This collaborative approach allows for the development of standardized regulations, streamlined customs procedures, and improved port infrastructure across the region. As a leading member of ASEAN, Indonesia can play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable and efficient maritime transportation network within Southeast Asia.

The double-edged sword of shipping: Balancing growth with environmental responsibility

Healthy oceans are the foundation for Indonesia’s thriving fisheries and tourism industries, vital sources of income for millions (World Bank, 2020). Sustainable shipping practices are not just an environmental responsibility, but an economic imperative. By adopting these practices, Indonesia can ensure the long-term viability of these vital sectors while minimizing its environmental footprint.

Indonesia’s contribution to the problem is significant. Estimates suggest that in 2018, the country was responsible for roughly 3.7% of global shipping emissions, with bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, and smaller industrial ships accounting for a staggering 87% (GMF, 2022). This data underscores the urgency for Indonesia to transition towards cleaner maritime practices, ensuring both economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.

A multifaceted approach to sustainable shipping

Sustainable shipping transcends mere technological advancements; it necessitates a holistic approach that encompasses every facet of the maritime supply chain. Indonesia’s commendable efforts demonstrate this multi-pronged strategy:

Cleaner vessels and fuels: Optimizing ship design for fuel efficiency and adopting cleaner fuels like LNG are crucial first steps. Initiatives like the Riau Islands’ Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) showcase successful route optimization, leading to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts align with the International Chamber of Shipping’s guidelines, ensuring harmonization with global best practices (International Chamber of Shipping, 2023).Responsible sourcing and eco-friendly packaging: Sustainability begins even before cargo reaches the vessel. Initiatives like those in West Kalimantan, which prioritize responsible forestry practices, ensure a steady supply of eco-friendly packaging materials for the shipping industry. This commitment reflects Indonesia’s national goals for sustainable consumption and production, as outlined in its National Action Plan (Government of Indonesia, 2023).Investing in greener ports: Modernization plays a significant role. Indonesia’s investments in greener ports with shore power capabilities offer cleaner options for docked ships, significantly reducing emissions. Additionally, improved waste management systems in these ports further minimize environmental impact.Collaboration for collective progress: Indonesia recognizes the global nature of the shipping industry and the importance of knowledge sharing. Active participation in international organizations like the IMO fosters collaboration and allows knowledge exchange with other maritime nations, driving collective progress towards a cleaner future for global shipping.Healthy oceans, thriving economy: The long-term expected benefits are undeniable. By prioritizing sustainable practices and reducing pollution, Indonesia safeguards the health of its oceans, a vital resource for its thriving fisheries and tourism industries. This approach ensures a healthy ecosystem for future generations, contributing to a sustainable and prosperous maritime economy.

This multifaceted approach highlights the strategic pillars of Indonesia’s commitment to a greener maritime future. By focusing on cleaner ships, fuels, ports, and packaging, while actively collaborating with the international community, Indonesia is well-positioned to become a leader in sustainable shipping practices.

Example of international collaboration: Indonesia and the UK forge a path towards sustainable shipping

Recognizing the shared responsibility to protect the marine environment and promote sustainable maritime practices, Indonesia and the United Kingdom have taken a significant step forward. In February 2023, the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on sustainable shipping and shipbuilding (Puspa and Setiaji, 2023). This landmark agreement marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to enhance the sustainability of Indonesia’s maritime sector.

The MoU encompasses a wide range of initiatives, including:

Knowledge sharing and capacity building: Both countries will exchange expertise and best practices in sustainable shipping technologies and operations. This knowledge transfer will empower Indonesian stakeholders to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.Technology transfer and innovation: Indonesia and the UK will collaborate on research and development of cutting-edge technologies for cleaner vessels and alternative fuels. This focus on innovation holds the potential to revolutionize the maritime industry and create a more sustainable future.

Challenges and opportunities

While Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable shipping is undeniable, its path forward is not without obstacles. Provinces like Papua, with their limited infrastructure and complex regulations, serve as microcosms of the challenges that persist across the archipelago. These hurdles, however, can be reframed as opportunities to push boundaries and foster innovation. 

Infrastructure bottlenecks: Underdeveloped ports and inadequate communication networks can significantly hinder the adoption of cleaner technologies and efficient practices. Imagine if remote Indonesian islands could utilize solar-powered charging stations for electric ferries, but a lack of grid connectivity hinders this vision. The World Bank highlights the economic benefits of investing in sustainable infrastructure, particularly in remote areas (World Bank, 2023). Herein lies the opportunity. By prioritizing strategic infrastructure projects, Indonesia can unlock the full potential of clean technologies across its vast maritime landscape.

Navigating regulatory labyrinth: Complex regulations and a lack of harmonization with international standards can create bureaucratic bottlenecks, discouraging investment and slowing progress. Imagine a shipping company eager to adopt cleaner fuels but entangled in a web of conflicting regulations. This highlights the need for streamlining regulations and aligning them with international best practices. By achieving this, Indonesia can create a more transparent and predictable regulatory environment, attracting investment and accelerating the transition towards sustainable shipping.

Harnessing the power of collaboration: The key to overcoming these challenges lies not in isolation, but in collaboration. International organizations, with their expertise and resources, can be invaluable partners. Indonesia’s recent agreement with the UK on sustainable shipping and shipbuilding serves as a prime example (refer to MoU reference). Imagine a collaborative effort between Indonesian shipyards and international technology companies to develop next-generation, eco-friendly vessels specifically designed for Indonesian waters. Furthermore, fostering regional cooperation within ASEAN can lead to the harmonization of regulations and the creation of a more sustainable maritime environment across Southeast Asia. By fostering these partnerships, Indonesia can leverage a global network of knowledge and resources to accelerate its progress towards a sustainable maritime future.

By embracing these challenges as opportunities for ingenuity and collaboration, Indonesia can not only overcome the hurdles in its path but also inspire the global maritime community.

Examples of sustainable practices

Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable shipping translates into a range of initiatives being implemented across the archipelago. Here are some notable examples:

Building sustainable shipping chains: The Riau Islands’ Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) stands as a shining example. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Indonesian government, shipping companies, and environmental NGOs, focuses on optimizing shipping routes to minimize fuel consumption and emissions. Furthermore, the SSI actively promotes the adoption of cleaner fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG) or biofuels as alternatives to conventional heavy fuel oil (HFO). This multi-faceted approach aligns perfectly with the International Chamber of Shipping’s (ICS) guidelines for reducing the environmental impact of maritime supply chains (International Chamber of Shipping, 2023).Steering towards maritime decarbonization: Indonesia recognizes the crucial role of renewable energy in achieving a sustainable maritime future. The Bali Clean Energy Initiative (BCEI) exemplifies this commitment. Launched in 2022, the BCEI is a collaborative effort between the Indonesian government, international organizations, and private entities. This initiative focuses on transitioning maritime transport in Bali, a major tourist destination, to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. The BCEI’s vision aligns with the recommendations set forth by the International Energy Agency (IEA) in its report, “World Energy Outlook 2023” (International Energy Agency, 2023).North Sumatra’s investment in eco-friendly vessels: North Sumatra, a crucial gateway for trade and a center for shipbuilding, is another frontrunner in sustainable shipping practices. The provincial government, in collaboration with local shipyards, is actively investing in the construction of new, energy-efficient vessels. These vessels incorporate innovative design features and cleaner technologies, such as advanced air lubrication systems that reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. This commitment to a greener maritime future positions North Sumatra as a leader in sustainable shipbuilding within Indonesia.Adding to Indonesia’s efforts, PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), a subsidiary of the state-owned energy company Pertamina, plays a significant role in promoting sustainable practices within the shipping industry (refer to Pertamina press release: From Solar Panels to Dual-Fuel Ships, Concrete Efforts by PIS to Reduce Pollution and Lower Emissions). PIS actively contributes to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions through a multi-pronged approach:Operational efficiency: Recognizing that operational efficiency is the most cost-effective way to reduce emissions in the short term, PIS prioritizes practices like continuous hull cleaning, installation of energy-saving devices, and optimizing ship speeds.Cleaner fuels and technologies: For the medium and long term, PIS is investing in the construction and acquisition of ships that utilize cleaner fuels, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), green ammonia, green hydrogen, and biofuel blends (dual-fuel vessels). A prime example is the Pertamina Gas Amaryllis, one of the world’s largest LPG-powered Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGC) and the first of its kind in Indonesia. Additionally, PIS incorporates biodiesel into the main engine power of 146 vessels within its fleet.Renewable energy integration: PIS actively explores the use of renewable energy sources in its operations. This includes subsidiary companies like PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK) and PT Pertamina Energy Terminal (PET) successfully utilizing solar panels to reduce CO2 emissions. For instance, the installation of solar power plants on PTK’s Transko Pari 01 ship fleet and shoreside connections at PTK Port Plaju have demonstrably reduced emissions and fuel consumption. Similarly, PET’s implementation of solar panels at strategic terminals has yielded positive results.

Conclusion

Indonesia’s maritime industry, a lifeblood of its economy and a strategic asset due to its geographical location, presents an exciting opportunity on the global stage. The nation aspires to become a global leader in sustainable shipping, shaping a cleaner and more responsible future for this vital sector. This ambition aligns perfectly with the growing international consensus on the need for a greener maritime industry.

While challenges like complex regulations and outdated infrastructure in remote areas persist, Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility shines brightly, offering valuable lessons for other maritime nations.

The diverse initiatives being implemented across the archipelago stand as testaments to this dedication. From the route optimization and cleaner fuel adoption championed by the Riau Islands’ SSI to the visionary transition towards renewable energy sources pursued by the Bali Clean Energy Initiative, a spirit of innovation and collaboration permeates these efforts. North Sumatra’s commitment to eco-friendly vessels demonstrates a focus on building a greener future from the ground up. Additionally, PT Pertamina International Shipping’s multifaceted approach to decarbonization showcases the crucial role that private companies can play in driving change. These initiatives not only reduce Indonesia’s environmental footprint but also contribute to cleaner air, healthier marine ecosystems, and a more robust maritime industry.

Furthermore, the Indonesian government last year was actively pursuing efforts to gather support from member countries of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for Indonesia’s re-election as a member of the IMO Council Category C for the 2024-2025 period. This re-election signifies its dedication to international collaboration on maritime regulations and environmental sustainability efforts. By actively participating in the IMO and sharing its experiences with successful sustainable practices, Indonesia can play a leading role in shaping global shipping policies that prioritize environmental well-being (refer to Indonesia re-elected as International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council member for 2024-2025). By actively participating in the IMO and sharing its experiences with sustainable practices, Indonesia can play a leading role in shaping a cleaner and more sustainable future for global shipping.

Interconnected efforts for global impact: Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable shipping extends beyond its borders. Recent agreements with countries like the UK, a leader in maritime innovation, demonstrates a focus on knowledge sharing and collaborative research and development of cleaner technologies (refer to MoU reference). These partnerships not only benefit Indonesia but also contribute to a global shift towards a more sustainable maritime industry. By fostering international collaboration and sharing its experiences, Indonesia can serve as a model for other maritime nations, inspiring a ripple effect of positive change across the interconnected web of global shipping.

By fostering innovation, embracing collaboration, and prioritizing environmental responsibility, Indonesia is well on its way to achieving a sustainable future for its vital maritime industry.

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