In line with the United Nations’ recognition of World Environmental Education Day, Ascott Waterplace Surabaya reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and community empowerment by hosting an event focused on household waste management and grassroots environmental action. Since 2022, the property has consistently championed initiatives that blend community engagement with sustainable practices, from empowering local SMEs through the Art & Craft Take Over program to preparing for Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification. This latest celebration highlighted the hotel’s dedication to the five pillars of Ascott CARES—Community, Alliance, Respect, Environment, and Supply Chain.
General Manager Handrian Wijaya explained that Ascott CARES serves as a guiding principle, ensuring that community empowerment and environmental stewardship remain central without losing sight of economic development. The event drew participants from diverse backgrounds, including educators, community leaders, and private sector representatives. Collaborators such as Nol Sampah, Kampung Sadar Wisata Sambiarum, Young Living, and Klinko shared progress on their environmental programs while focusing on practical education around household waste, particularly used cooking oil.
Hanie Ismail, co-founder of Nol Sampah, emphasized that more than half of Indonesia’s waste originates from households, underscoring the importance of starting change at home. With 6.6 million kiloliters of cooking oil ending up as waste annually, grassroots participation is vital. Wahyu Oktorianto from Kampung Sambiarum demonstrated how used oil can be filtered and combined with palm wax or stearic acid to create candles, which can be enhanced with essential oils to become aromatherapy products.
The collaboration also showcased how community initiatives inspire younger generations. Kampung Sambiarum Berwarna and Nol Sampah have pioneered creative environmental education, from camping activities that teach children conservation and waste sorting to broader campaigns that encourage sustainable living. Their efforts have not only transformed local neighborhoods but also inspired communities beyond Surabaya.
Private sector partners added further dimension to the event. Klinko demonstrated how textile waste can be repurposed into stylish bags, while Young Living shared its commitment to eco-friendly production processes, from seed planting to packaging, ensuring that products remain pure without compromising ecosystems. Representative Putri Panca noted that the event reflected Young Living’s belief that nature’s resources can be transformed into valuable products while supporting community-based, ecological growth.
Through this celebration, Ascott Waterplace Surabaya reinforced its role as a hub for collaboration, proving that sustainability thrives when communities, NGOs, and businesses work hand in hand. The event not only addressed household waste challenges but also inspired participants to see environmental stewardship as both a responsibility and an opportunity to create meaningful impact.