Like much of the rest of the world, Indonesia has a problem with plastic pollution. Fortunately, individuals can inspire workplaces and communities to make a positive difference. A small act of creativity can transform workplaces into eco-friendly spaces. That’s the story of one of our gardeners, Masrudin, who has shown simple ideas and a bit of initiative can put us on path toward a greener future.
Masrudin’s inspiring creativity
Masrudin takes care of the garden at one of our customers’ premises in Jakarta. He saw that visitors in the parking area often left rubbish behind. Instead of waiting for someone to solve the problem, he decided to act.
He began collecting used chemical containers from the site’s waste collection areas and turned them into rubbish bins. After cleaning them and cutting off the tops, he painted them in different colours to separate organic, non-organic, and hazardous waste. The bins are now a clear, visible way to encourage proper disposal and basic waste sorting on-site.
“As a gardener, I often notice rubbish scattered in the parking area. So I created bins that people can use, not just for throwing things away but also to sort the waste properly.”
Masrudin
Gardener OCS Indonesia
His idea has been well received by both the customer and OCS Indonesia team. It’s a small step, but one that helps build better habits in waste disposal.
Finding use in what’s left behind
This isn’t the first time Masrudin has found a use for discarded items. He has also reused old tyres to make borders for the garden. After cleaning and painting them, he turned the tyres into plant pots that keep the space organised and visually tidy.
His efforts gained recognition through two TRUE Star programme in the categories of Respect and Empowerment. He is modestly hopeful of helping to develop a culture of better waste management.
“I realised that creativity can make a difference. Many people still don’t know how to sort waste, so even simple changes like these bins can help raise awareness.”
Doing what we can, where we are
Plastic pollution continues to be one of the world’s biggest environmental problems. This year’s World Environment Day theme, #BeatPlasticPollution, reminds us that reusing plastic and keeping it out of landfills is one way we can all help.
At OCS Indonesia, we support this effort by encouraging circular approach, finding ways to extend the life of materials and reduce waste. From our offices to customer sites across Indonesia, we believe sustainability starts with the basics.
Masrudin’s story is just one example. He stood up and took action. He saw a problem and used what was already around him to improve things. That’s the kind of thinking that makes a real difference.
