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A Conceptual Approach to Defining a Carbon Tax in the Transport Sector in Indonesia: Economic, Social, and Environmental Aspects

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  • Diaz Pranita

    (Applied Social Humanieties Department, Vocational Education Faculty, Universitas Indonesia, Kota Depok 16424, Indonesia)

  • Sri Sarjana

    (Marketing, Innovation and Technology Department, Politeknik Transportasi Darat Indonesia—STTD, Kabupaten Bekasi 17520, Indonesia)

Abstract

The implementation of a carbon tax in the transportation sector aims to reduce carbon emissions and encourage the transition to sustainable mobility amid increasing urbanization. The transportation sector is one of the largest contributors of carbon emissions in Indonesia, requiring effective policies to reduce its environmental impacts. Therefore, this study aims to find a more optimal carbon tax formula that is in accordance with Indonesia’s socio-economic conditions. The approach used includes analysis of transportation emission data, the economic impact of different carbon tax schemes, and tax revenue allocation strategies to support green infrastructure and sustainable transportation. The results of the study indicate that an adaptive carbon tax formula in the transportation sector is able to balance the economic burden, emission reduction targets, social justice, behavioral changes, and revenue allocation for green infrastructure, thus ensuring a just and sustainable transition. A progressive carbon tax, based on vehicle emission levels and fuel types, can encourage the transition to low-emission vehicles without excessively burdening low-income communities. With this approach, carbon tax policy functions not only as a fiscal instrument but also as a transformative strategy in creating an environmentally friendly and equitable transportation system.

Suggested Citation

  • Diaz Pranita & Sri Sarjana, 2025. "A Conceptual Approach to Defining a Carbon Tax in the Transport Sector in Indonesia: Economic, Social, and Environmental Aspects," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(13), pages 1-33, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:13:p:3493-:d:1693231
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