Marie Elka Pangestu Initiates Zero Wasta Picnic Concept

Jakarta, (Antara) - United in Diversity (UID), a non-profit organization having Indonesian leaders from the business community, government, and civil society, has initiated the zero waste picnic concept to develop tourism and preserve the environment.

President of the UID Mari Elka Pangestu stated here on Saturday that the zero waste picnic concept should be promoted as part of tourism development and preservation of the environment in the country.

"This is part of the 12th sustainable development goals that could be started by us," the former tourism minister noted.

The zero waste picnic concept was introduced during the Happiness Festival held in Menteng Park on Mar 31 and Apr 1.

She remarked that adopting the zero waste picnic concept has demonstrated Indonesia's support to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals launched by the United Nations in 2015 and adopted by 193 countries.

Sustainable Development Goals is a universal call to create a happier world through efforts to alleviate poverty and preserve the environment as well as to ensure that all people can lead a prosperous and peaceful life.

"The point is that we should go back to nature, not like earlier when we relied on nature for everything. We use leaves as plates instead of plastic or papers, which can hardly be decomposed," she emphasized.

Pangestu also recommended the use of reusable glass instead of plastic bottles. Pangestu reiterated the need for the tourism sector to accustom its human resources to the concept of zero waste picnic.

"It is important for the tourism sector to train, for instance, tour guides, to accustom their guests to not litter. When they go hiking, the trash should be brought back down," she added.

In fact, the concept of zero waste picnic could be started on an individual basis by reducing the use of products that are difficult to decompose, she noted.

"I also call on the people to reduce the use of plastic bags. Bring your own shopping basket. It was our local tradition to bring our own basket when we visited the market," she stated.

One small step by every individual can make a huge impact if it is a joint effort with high commitment, Pangestu added.(*)
Reported by Hanni Sofia