Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Jl Ir. Sutami 36A Surakarta, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia

Email: sudarmosudarmo1963@gmail.com

The Indonesian government has formally determined the large-scale coal production to meet economic motives. This study uses the documentary method.  The study found that coal mining activity had positive and negative impacts. Coal mining creates environmental damage resulting in conflicts, and advantaged and disadvantaged groups. The conflict resolution approach tends to be partial, and has not resolved the problem because the community tends to be victimized. It is important to take a participatory and inclusive collective action approach because environmental problems require the diverse stakeholders’ involvement. The commitment of coal mining entrepreneurs and the government concrete actions to minimize the negative impacts of coal mining cannot be delayed any longer to ensure the sustainability of resources, human life and the natural environment.