Singkong Cikarawang: A Game-Changer in Indonesia’s Bioplastic Industry – Exporting to Japan
In a groundbreaking development, Singkong, a humble staple food known for its affordability, has now emerged as a high-value commodity for producing environmentally friendly bioplastic. Greenhope, in collaboration with the Kelompok Petani Tani Setia in the village of Cikarawang, West Java, and various stakeholders, has successfully transformed singkong into a range of innovative products, including eco-friendly bioplastics exported globally, including to Japan.
Empowering Local Farmers
Greenhope, alongside the Kelompok Tani Setia, has enhanced the capacity of local farmers through intensive training, ongoing mentorship, and production facility support. These farmers can now process singkong into high-value products like mocaf flour, instant mocaf noodles, and bioplastic products based on singkong, utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as Ecoplas and Naturloop.
Revolutionizing the Market
One of their standout products is bioplastic straws, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic in the global market. This innovative solution aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision as outlined in the book “Strategi Transformasi Bangsa: Menuju Indonesia Emas 2045,” released in 2023.
Positive Impact
Tommy Tjiptadjaja, CEO of Greenhope, highlighted the tangible benefits of these products in reducing carbon footprint and microplastic pollution, while also bringing about positive socio-economic impacts for Indonesian farmers. The collaboration and support from various parties, including the government, have paved the way for Indonesia to establish a thriving bioplastic industry from upstream to downstream.
Government Endorsement
Deputy Minister of Environment, Diaz Faisal Malik Hendropriyono, commended Greenhope and the singkong farmers in Cikarawang for their breakthrough. These starch-based singkong products play a vital role in addressing plastic waste issues, contributing to the government’s sustainability efforts.
Industry Recognition
Acknowledging the pivotal role of industry players in promoting eco-friendly bioplastics, awards were presented by KPPLI and Gerakan Pasti to organizations like Watsons, Sarirasa Group, Ecorasa, and others for their support and adoption of bioplastic solutions across various sectors.
Commitment to Sustainability
Damayanti Ratunanda, Director of Fund Distribution at the Environmental Management Fund Agency, emphasized their commitment to supporting sustainability through initiatives like the Catalytic Funding program with UNDP, aimed at expanding positive impacts on the environment, society, and governance.
The transformation of singkong into bioplastics represents a significant stride towards a greener, more sustainable future, marking Indonesia’s entry into the global eco-friendly materials market. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, the nation is poised to lead the way in environmental conservation and economic prosperity.
