Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. drastically
    • ex. Grocery prices dropped drastically during the big sale last week.
  2. renewable energy
    • ex. Many people support renewable energy, like solar or wind power, because it does not run out.
  3. geothermal
    • ex. Geothermal power plants produce electricity from the Earth's heat.
  4. net zero
    • ex. The company has a plan to build net zero buildings that do not harm the environment.
  5. emit
    • ex. The factory emits noise during the day, but it stops at night.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced plans to close all coal and fossil fuel power plants. The government also plans to drastically increase the country’s use of renewable energy over the next 15 years. He announced this at a meeting in Brazil, highlighting Indonesia’s wealth in geothermal power. The goal is to build over 75 gigawatts of renewable energy during this time.

Subianto is optimistic that Indonesia can become a net zero country by 2050, ten years earlier than its original plan. However, experts say changes need to start quickly. Indonesia is a major maker and consumer of coal, with over 250 coal power plants. These plants emit large amounts of carbon dioxide, causing climate change.

Environmental activists are happy about the announcement, but they are careful and want to see clear action. Experts like Bhima Yudhistira said that if the government is serious, it must clearly stop using coal and prevent new permits for these plants. While only 14.5% of Indonesia’s renewable energy sources are being used now, there is potential for geothermal, wind, water, and solar energy. Subianto’s plan could have a big impact if done well.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Renewable Energy

  • What do you think is the most important reason to use renewable energy? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, what would be the best source of renewable energy in your country (ex. geothermal, solar)? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, what is your country’s position regarding the use of renewable energy (ex. the government plans to increase its use, it still prefers fossil fuels)? Discuss.

Fossil Fuels

  • In your opinion, are fossil fuels harmful? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Subianto is optimistic that Indonesia can become a net zero country. Would you like your country to become a net zero country as well? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Imagine you’re in charge of energy policy in your county. What changes would you make regarding fossil fuels? Discuss.