Formulation of a Nickel Mining Cooperation Agreement Model in Indonesia based on Environmental Justice

Abstract This study examines the impact of nickel mining on environment and society in Indonesia, and formulates a cooperation agreement model for mining based on the principles of environmental justice. Indonesia possesses the largest nickel reserves in the world (approximately 23% of global reserves) and has implemented a downstream policy to increase economic value. However, mining activities have caused significant environmental degradation, including water pollution with heavy metal content exceeding safe limits, deforestation, and coastal ecosystem damage due to increased sedimentation rates. These conditions contradict the principles of environmental justice as stipulated in Article 28H of the 1945 Constitution and Law No. 32 of 2009. This research employs a normative legal study with statutory, conceptual, and case study approaches. The study recommends a Sustainable Integrated Cooperation Agreement Model involving the government, corporations, and local communities, founded on the principle of good faith. This agreement model includes strict environmental standards, the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies, mandatory post-mining reclamation, public consultation mechanisms adhering to the principle of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent, a fair economic benefit-sharing system, as well as robust monitoring and sanction mechanisms. Through this approach, nickel mining can deliver economic benefits without compromising environmental sustainability and community welfare, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.