LocationsLaunch of the solar ice maker in Kawa village to boost Indonesian small-scale fisheries
October 15, 2024
Maluku, Indonesia – October 15, 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ) in Indonesia, and the International Pole and Line Foundation (IPNLF) - Yayasan IPNLF inaugurated today a groundbreaking solar-powered ice-making facility in Kawa Village, Maluku Province. This marks a significant step towards enhancing the livelihoods of small-scale fishers and promoting sustainable fishing practices in Indonesia.
Indonesia, the world's largest tuna producer, relies heavily on its small-scale fisheries, which provide livelihoods, gender-equal employment opportunities, and food security. But remote coastal communities often lack access to a reliable cold chain – limiting their ability to preserve the quality of their catch and compete in more distant markets.
This innovative project addresses these challenges by deploying a 100% carbon-free, solar-powered ice maker in Kawa Village. The technology, manufactured by AIREF with support from GIZ Indonesia and PT ASTB, can produce up to one ton of ice per day, operating entirely off-grid and using thermal energy storage instead of costly batteries.
To enhance small-scale fishers' access to marine resources and markets, UNDP's Ocean Innovation Challenge selected Yayasan IPNLF Indonesia from over 300 applicants in 2022. The OIC provides up to US$250,000 and two year-mentorship to help innovators address sustainable fisheries challenges.
“We were looking for transformative, scalable, replicable projects to help with sustainable fisheries. This one allowed fishing communities to preserve their catch and get it to market in top condition. To achieve this an environmentally friendly way really does meet all our criteria. Now this community can make ice as long as the sun is shining,” said Dr. Mary Matthews, UNDP OIC Manager.
The project aligns with Indonesia's vision for an ocean-fuelled Blue Economy. It also contributes directly to several Sustainable Development Goals, including responsible consumption and production; climate action; and providing access to marine resources and markets for small-scale fishers. Indonesia is committed to reducing the carbon footprint of its fisheries as part of the “Indonesian Tuna Year 2024”.
"At UNDP Indonesia, we believe that energy transition needs to benefit everyone, particularly to underserved communities," said Norimasa Shimomura, UNDP Indonesia Resident Representative. " By prioritizing these and through its emphasis on empowering local communities, it will serve as a replicable model for achieving a Just Energy Transition—one that brings everyone along on the journey toward clean energy. This project is a wonderful example of what we can achieve when we work together on Just Transition that can drive both economic growth and social progress."
“Transitioning to renewable energy in the fisheries sector, especially in small-scale fisheries, can be a major achievement in the battle to address climate change impacts,” said Martin Purves, Managing Director IPNLF. “The Solar Ice Maker not only strengthens local cold chain infrastructure but also represents a crucial investment in the future of sustainable small-scale fisheries. We are keen to work with our market partners, investors and the donor community to find scalable solutions that will help ensure long-term market access and improved economic resilience for small-scale fishers and their dependent coastal communities.”
Frank Stegmüller, Lead Industry Decarbonisation & Energy Island Solutions, Energy Programme, GIZ Indonesia/ASEAN added: "The solar ice maker technology partnership is part of GIZ's commitment to industry decarbonization. By using our most universal source of energy to power cold chain applications, we’re cutting emissions and taking steps towards carbon-neutral global supply chains. On a local level, this technology raises the competitiveness of small-scale fishers, enabling them access to cold chains and markets wherever they are.”
The initiative also includes upskilling programs for fishers, focusing on improved handling practices, cold chain protocols, financial literacy, and asset management. This holistic approach ensures that the community can effectively utilize the new technology and reap its full benefits - now and in the future.
The solar ice maker is a scalable and replicable model for other coastal regions facing similar challenges. It demonstrates how responsible innovation can elevate small-scale fisheries, improve socio-economic conditions in coastal communities, and ensure a sustainable future for seafood production.
About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization in fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries and territories, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.
About Yayasan IPNLF Indonesia
Yayasan IPNLF Indonesia is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting sustainable one-by-one tuna fisheries in Indonesia, focusing on improving livelihoods, conserving marine ecosystems, and ensuring fair trade practices.
Contact:
Khristine Gudczinski, UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge, khristine.gudczinski@undp.org
Devi Nugraha, UNDP Indonesia devi.nugraha@undp.org