Innovation in Recycling and Green Energy Drives Community-Based Circular Economy
- STIC CEGIR
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Industries and communities in Indonesia continue to strengthen efforts to realize a circular economy through the utilization of waste and environmentally friendly energy. PT Chandra Asri Pacific Tbk (TPIA) and PT Pertamina Patra Niaga stand out as two industrial players actively promoting sustainable environmental management through innovative, community-based approaches.
Chandra Asri Group introduced a plastic flake product called CIRCLO, developed since 2023 to enhance Indonesia’s plastic recycling ecosystem. Not only used as a material for infrastructure such as plastic asphalt, CIRCLO also promote circularity by transforming low-value plastic waste into high-value raw materials. The product meets technical standards set by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR), making it a practical solution for sustainable infrastructure and waste management.
CIRCLO symbolizes collaboration between upstream and downstream sectors in the recycling industry, where a strong supply chain is believed to boost economic value while reducing environmental burden. In February, Chandra Asri, in collaboration with the Bakti Barito Foundation and the Garut Regency Government, built 50.2 kilometers of plastic asphalt roads, contributing to a total of 100 kilometers and diverting 431.5 tons of plastic waste from landfills.
On the other hand, Pertamina Patra Niaga demonstrates that green technology can also strengthen local economic resilience. Through its flagship Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) programs, Pertamina launched three initiatives in Cilacap, Central Java: Bu Petra, Pinky Rudal, and Pepes Sega K Cap.
The Bu Petra (Integrated Aquaculture Development) program utilizes solar panels to power waterwheels and convert plastic waste into fuel for fish pallet machines, benefiting over 100 community members. Meanwhile, Pinky Rudal helps hundreds of farmers tackle climate change with a renewable energy-based rice dryer that significantly shorthens drying time and increases grain quality and selling price. The Pepes Sega K Cap program has processed 13.5 tons of bycatch fish into eco-friendly pellets since its launch, showcasing that circular approaches can be inclusive and impactful.
These initiatives illustrate that the circular economy is not solely the responsibility of large industries—it can also flourish within empowered local communities through technology and cross-sector collaboration. Waste management, renewable energy, and social innovation now form essential pillars in building a greener and more sustainable future for Indonesia.
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