Amid growing global concerns about plastic waste, PT Subur Agro Makmur (PT SAM), a subsidiary of PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk., has introduced an innovative solution: converting plastic waste into a hydroponic growing medium.
Through a program titled “Transforming Plastic Waste into Hydroponics,” PT SAM has partnered with Daha Selatan State Kindergarten as a pilot location. This initiative not only supports the Healthy School Competition but also takes a significant step toward fostering environmental awareness from an early age.
The activity has received praise from various stakeholders. Yeni Kusuma Ahmad Yani, the Head of the PKK of Daha Selatan District, expressed her appreciation for PT SAM’s tangible efforts in promoting the practice of sorting and utilizing waste.
“This is not just a project; it is an investment in the future. Thank you to PT SAM for bringing fresh and educational ideas to the school and community,” stated Yeni.
A similar view was shared by Hj. Asmah, the Principal of the State Kindergarten Pembina in South Daha. He noted that, in addition to assisting with competition judging, this program imparts valuable lessons to both students and teachers.
“Children are now realizing that plastic waste, which was previously seen as useless, can actually be transformed into a new source of life through hydroponics,” explained Asmah.
Eco-Friendly, Educational, and Sustainable Solutions
This program is part of Astra Agro Lestari’s commitment to promoting sustainable development. Esti Setyaningsih, Sustainability Assistant at PT SAM, explained that the initiative to process plastic waste into planting media aligns with the company’s current focus on the waste-to-value principle.
While plastic waste is often viewed as a problem, it can actually be turned into a solution with proper management. Esti highlighted that “with hydroponics, we not only reduce waste but also create a healthy food source and open up potential for small businesses.”
Beyond just introducing the concept, PT SAM actively assisted in the construction of hydroponic installations at the school. This initiative educates students, teachers, and even parents about the importance of innovative and beneficial waste management.
Astra Agro’s Commitment to the Environment and Community: A Testament to Our Values and Vision
PT SAM serves as a concrete example of how environmental concerns can be integrated with community development.
By focusing not only on sustainable palm oil, PT SAM demonstrates that social innovation can begin in schools, with small actions, and through the awareness of transforming “waste” into “hope.”
Through this initiative, PT SAM encourages all members of society to view waste not just as a problem, but as an opportunity to create a greener, healthier, and more empowered future.
Source: Kalselhits.com
A number of used bottles are utilized as a medium for hydroponic plants at the State Kindergarten Pembina Daha Selatan, with guidance from PT SAM.
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