SBM ITB launched the Avirama Nawasena Awards series, which includes the SBM ITB ESG Award, with a webinar entitled “Transforming Our Society to Sustainable Innovation” on Friday (27/9). The webinar featured industry experts such as Rendy Aditya Wachid (Founder & CEO of Parongpong Recycle and Waste Lab), Trini Pratiwi (Senior Manager of Sustainability & Development at eFishery), and Melia Famiola, PhD (Lecturer at SBM ITB and Chairperson of ESG SBM).
Melia emphasized the importance of adopting an innovative mindset, particularly about the circular economy. The circular economy approach aims to minimize waste, regenerate natural resources, and extend the lifespan of products. By transitioning from a linear take-make-dispose model to a circular one, society can reduce its carbon footprint and create new economic opportunities.
Rendy reinforced this message by highlighting the critical role of technology in advancing sustainability. Innovations such as hydrothermal processing, digital tracing systems, and modular construction have the potential to revolutionize how we produce, consume, and dispose of goods.
Parongpong Recycle and Waste Lab, founded by Rendy, pioneered low-value waste management in Indonesia. By focusing on “impossible” waste—waste that is extremely difficult to recycle, such as fishing nets, cigarette butts, and used medical masks—Parongpong is changing the perception of waste as something of little value. Through its technology, Parongpong transforms low-value waste into high-value products, such as furniture, plastic art, and even construction materials. The company uses a digital tracing system to track the life cycle of products and materials, enabling businesses and governments to make more informed decisions.
The webinar also showcased eFishery, a technology and finance company focused on the aquaculture industry. One of eFishery’s key initiatives is the Place-based Sourcing Initiative, which involves partnering with local producers to ensure that its products are sustainably sourced and contribute to the welfare of both farmers and the environment.
eFishery has also developed financing solutions for aquaculture farmers. Previously, these farmers lacked access to credit and financing schemes due to the absence of a credit scoring system. With Kabayan, eFishery’s loan product, farmers can expand their businesses through improved access to capital.
Registration for the Avirama Nawasena Award is open until november 9 2024. Please visit our instagram page @aan.sbmitb for more further information.