PGN and KLHK Collaborate to Promote Responsible Plastic Use for Environmental Conservation

Jakarta – PT PGN Tbk is committed to implementing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in its operations of distributing natural gas. PGN stands in solidarity with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) and environmental activists in promoting eco-friendly practices and protecting the Earth.

In commemoration of Earth Day, PGN specifically encourages the public to be more mindful of plastic usage. Plastic waste, which is one of the largest types of non-biodegradable waste, has a significant negative impact on the environment.

The Directorate General of Pollution Control and Environmental Damage at KLHK (Ditjen PPKL KLHK) reported that Indonesia is the second-largest contributor to waste globally, following China, primarily due to the high use of plastic.

“Plastic waste constitutes 18.7% of all waste. So, if the total waste is 19 million tons per year, plastic accounts for 18.7%,” said Tulus Laksono, Secretary of Ditjen PPKL KLHK, during the "Planet vs Plastik" talk show at PGN's headquarters on May 3, 2024.

KLHK is deeply concerned with addressing environmental pollution, and plastic waste remains a focus of government attention. The Ministry stresses that all levels of society must contribute to protecting the Earth, with the government playing a more prominent role as outlined in regulations.

“Environmental awareness can start with small actions at home. Non-organic waste can be separated and placed in waste banks. Many waste banks are being encouraged in communities, which is also effective in schools. Private sector support and collaboration with various parties are essential to tackle pollution, including plastic waste,” Tulus added.

In response, PGN’s Director of Infrastructure and Technology, Harry Budi Sidharta, emphasized the importance of increasing environmental awareness and using plastic wisely. PGN, as a key player in the energy sector, has a significant responsibility to support government efforts in protecting the planet. “It’s impossible to avoid using plastic, but we need to figure out how to use it wisely,” he said.

“PGN, as a company in the oil and gas sector, has a greater environmental responsibility due to its proximity to natural resource exploitation. Awareness and real action are crucial to minimize the environmental impact of PGN’s operations in the natural gas industry,” added Harry.

PGN’s environmental efforts include initiatives like mangrove planting and coastal clean-ups (CCU) in collaboration with KLHK in Banten, battery waste recycling, and the establishment of a waste bank in Pagardewa Village. In 2023, PGN reduced hazardous waste (B3) from 14,646 tons in 2022 to 13,607 tons, while non-hazardous waste decreased from 163.3 tons in 2022 to 142.2 tons.

Environmental awareness and waste management efforts by PGN’s subsidiaries also extend to the communities around their operations. For example, PT Pertagas Operation East Java Area (Pertagas OEJA) supports environmental management efforts in Kalitengah Village, Sidoarjo, through the Kidung Tanggulangin program (Protecting Vulnerable Communities and Environmental Management Initiative).

PGN will continue to integrate sustainability principles into all its business processes, from strategy formulation and policy development to creating sustainability programs. All initiatives align with ESG standards and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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