Joint Transformation Center Presents Waste Management Innovation for Freeport Smelter
12 November 2023
Gresik – As a commitment to continue to prioritize sustainable development, PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) plays an active role in managing construction waste from the smelter construction process, through the Joint Transformation Center (PTB).
Inaugurated in November 2022, PTB is the result of PTFI's collaboration with the Takmir Masjid Manyar Foundation (Yatamam) and PT Raya Manyar Persada (RMP), in Manyarejo Village, Gresik, East Java. PTB has the main function to manage temporary recyclable waste transfer facilities from smelter construction projects. This facility strives for material recovery through the concept of recycling so that it can reduce inorganic waste disposed of directly to the Landfill (TPA).
Nana Suharna, PTFI's CSR Superintendent hopes that PTB's presence can provide social benefits. "PTB sorts construction waste directly at the smelter construction site, then processed at PTB. The sale of construction waste treatment products that already have added value is carried out by third parties," he said. One of the construction waste management carried out is the management of leftover iron piles, wood, and other construction waste materials through the upcycling process to become furniture products.
Non-recyclable materials are sold through Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) that have collaborated with PTB at lower prices. Thus, the profits obtained by BUMDes can be used to increase the potential of MSMEs under the guidance of BUMDes and as additional business capital.
From the proceeds from the sale of materials that are not suitable for recycling, PTB has provided periodic compensation to orphans as part of a form of cooperation with Yatamam. Muhammad Reza, an employee of PTB said that, "Since its establishment, PTB has succeeded in providing compensation to 467 orphans from 11 villages around the smelter construction project. In addition, upcycling products managed by PTB have not been traded to the local community, but donated. An example is the wooden reciting table donated to the local community and mosque."
PTB trains local residents who are transitioning from their jobs as pond farmers to roles that will support industrialization in the area. "Today, local workers work as carpenters and are trained to work effectively in new industries. In the long run, PTB not only aims to turn waste into valuable products, but also to develop the skills and independence of local communities," Reza concluded.
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