Launched during the 24th ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF-24), the report presents coal as a resource in the ASEAN region’s journey to fuel its economic growth, maintaining social equity, and environmental stewardship.

The report highlights that since 2000, Southeast Asia has witnessed a substantial surge in energy demand, with electricity consumption growing at an average annual rate of 4.4%. Coal has been central to meeting this demand, providing a reliable and affordable energy source that supports industrial growth, infrastructure development, and economic resilience across ASEAN.

Future Coal’s Director of Strategy and Sustainability, Paul Baruya, emphasised coal’s role as a driver of socio-economic development in the region:

“Coal not only fuels economic growth, but also generates substantial revenues that fund essential public services – including healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. By creating job opportunities and reinforcing energy security, coal is integral to the prosperity and stability of ASEAN nations. ‘Responsible’ investment requires a balanced approach to all fuels and technologies, especially in emerging and developing countries where coal drives sustainable development.”

The report underscores coal’s multifaceted contributions to a range of SDGs:

  • Economic Growth and Poverty Alleviation: Coal is a catalyst for economic growth by providing affordable energy, supporting business activities, and creating jobs across various sectors – contributing to SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
  • Environmental Stewardship and Innovation: Advanced coal emission abatement technologies play a supporting role in achieving SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Innovations like high-efficiency low emissions (HELE), co-firing coal and sustainable biomass, utilising combined heat and power to extract the maximum energy out of a tonne of coal, circulating fluidised bed systems to add fuel flexibility, and reusing by-products and waste from coal to move to a circular economy. These technologies can reduce emissions by up to 99%, driving a sustainable energy future.
  • Social Equity and Well-Being: The coal industry prioritises the health, safety, and well-being of its workers and surrounding communities through comprehensive healthcare programs, educational initiatives, and gender equality workshops, contributing to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).

Baruya highlighted the role of FutureCoal’s Sustainable Coal Stewardship (SCS) in advancing the industry’s alignment with the UN SDGs:

“Our Sustainable Coal Stewardship philosophy guides the global coal value chain toward more sustainable and responsible practices – improving mining processes, enhancing combustion efficiency, and exploring innovative uses for coal beyond traditional power generation. This approach addresses environmental concerns and positions coal as a key player in the transition to a sustainable and responsible future.”

The collaboration between FutureCoal and the ACE reflects a shared commitment to advancing ASEAN’s sustainable development agenda. The report is a critical resource for policymakers, industry leaders, and communities, offering a comprehensive perspective on coal’s strategic importance in the region’s energy landscape.