Progress Toward Carbon Neutrality in ASEAN

This chapter examines the recent progress toward carbon neutrality in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its member states (AMSs), drawing on energy and CO2 data, official publications, existing studies, and original interviews conducted by the authors. ASEAN has emerged as a key player in global climate governance due to rapid economic growth and increasing international responsibilities. However, rising energy consumption—propelled by industrial expansion, increasing automobile usage, and modernized lifestyles—has led to a significant rise in greenhouse gas emissions. Despite these developments, many AMSs remain heavily dependent on fossil fuels, compelling them to balance energy security essential for sustained economic growth with their commitments to climate mitigation. In particular, as decarbonization has become a major element of their Nationally Determined Contributions, enhancing energy efficiency, integrating renewable energy sources, and fostering innovative technologies—such as carbon dioxide capture, utilization and storage, hydrogen energy systems, and the electrification of transport through electric vehicles—are of critical importance. These initiatives are increasingly supported by international financial and technological cooperation. While national governments play a leading role, the private sector, especially environmental entrepreneurs, also serves as a key driver of carbon neutrality by deploying emerging technologies and developing sustainable business models. Thus, ASEAN’s strenuous efforts toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 offer valuable lessons for other emerging economies striving to meet similar climate objectives.