Building a Circular and Human-Centered Plastic Supply Chain in Indonesia

In response to the precariousness of the informal waste sector in Indonesia, the Veolia Foundation is supporting a pilot initiative that combines social dignity and environmental excellence. The structuring of 14 collection centers is contributing to the creation of an inclusive and sustainable recycling model.

Local Expertise Serving People

An international solidarity NGO with 15 years of experience in training and environmental awareness, Yayasan Pembangunan Citra Insan Indonesia (YPCII) serves as the operational lead for this project. The organization combines deep knowledge of local communities with recognized expertise in social mediation and waste management. Its role is to bridge the gap between field realities and industrial requirements, ensuring that technical progress directly benefits the most vulnerable workers.

Professionalizing PET Collection

The “Inclusive Supply Chain & Sustainability” project is based on a technical and structural transformation of the collection sector in Pasuruan. Intervention focuses on providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and optimizing the logistics of collection routes to reduce the carbon footprint of the activity. Support from the Foundation also enables the deployment of entrepreneurship training programs and facilitated access to microcredits. In parallel, an essential technical component ensures access to water, sanitation, and hygiene within the processing centers.

Towards an Exemplary Social and Circular Model

The project aims to create a sustainable PET supply chain that is free from child labor and respectful of human rights. Beyond the 200 direct beneficiaries, the initiative sets a precedent by demonstrating that rigorous environmental management is compatible with the autonomy of collectors, who remain free from any commercial exclusivity contracts. Ultimately, the training of local community leaders will allow this inclusive model to be replicated in other regions or industrial sectors in Indonesia.

The Veolia Foundation's financial support is accompanied by the skills sponsorship of eight employees from various Veolia departments in the area.