Depok, 22 November 2024 — Universitas Indonesia (UI), through the Center for Sustainability and Waste Management (CSWM UI) and the Faculty of Engineering (FTUI), in collaboration with PT Amandina Bumi Nusantara, officially launched the “Grand Launching of FTUI Bottle Plastic Dropbox” on Tuesday (19/11), at the Lobby of Building K, Faculty of Engineering UI. As part of this initiative, ten dedicated plastic bottle dropboxes were installed throughout the FTUI area, marking a tangible step toward reducing plastic bottle waste at landfill sites and advancing circular economy practices within the campus environment.

Principal of CSWM UI, Prof. Dr. Ir. Mochamad Chalid, S.Si., M.Sc.Eng., emphasized that the collaboration embodies the concept of a “sustainable city miniature,” positioning UI as both a model and a living laboratory for the development of sustainability initiatives. This concept allows the integration of environmentally friendly urban components, including green infrastructure, waste management systems, and livable housing. The sustainable city model is envisioned to be replicable across regions in Indonesia, offering a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and integrated solution for urban development. “Waste management is not a solitary journey, but a shared responsibility. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for the generations to come,” said Prof. Chalid.

The installation of the 10 plastic bottle dropboxes at FTUI is expected to not only enhance waste management infrastructure but also foster improved habits among students and staff regarding plastic waste disposal and recycling. These dropboxes will facilitate more efficient collection, sorting, and recycling of plastic bottles into new products aligned with circular economy principles, ultimately minimizing the environmental impact of plastic waste.

According to Rachel Nathasia, Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability at PT Amandina Bumi Nusantara, this collaborative initiative aligns with the company’s vision to support integrated waste management systems across Indonesia. By partnering with academic institutions, PT Amandina Bumi Nusantara aims to strengthen plastic waste collection channels in various regions while promoting sustainability values among the younger generation. The presence of these dropboxes on the FTUI campus is expected to serve as both an educational tool and a tangible model for students, inspiring them to actively contribute to environmental sustainability.