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For many years, plastic has been an inseparable part of business activities and everyday life. From food and beverage packaging to the automotive industry, almost every sector relies on plastic. The reasons are simple: it is inexpensive, flexible, and efficient. However, the question is now shifting. What happens when the material that has long been the most economical starts becoming increasingly expensive? Recently, plastic is no longer viewed as just another raw material. It has become a recurring topic in boardrooms, public policy agendas, and everyday discussions, particularly among business players such as UMKM. This is not driven by new innovation, but rather by rising prices that are beginning to put pressure on many industries. Behind this trend are multiple interconnected factors. Geopolitical tensions in energy-producing regions, post-pandemic supply chain disruptions, and fluctuations in global oil prices all have a direct impact on the petrochemical industry. As plastic is derived from oil and gas, the effects are inevitably felt across the sector. At the same time, environmental concerns can no longer be overlooked. Ocean pollution, the waste crisis, and emission reduction targets are pushing many countries to tighten regulations. This means companies are facing not only rising raw material costs but also additional expenses related to waste management obligations, recycling requirements, and increasing demands for transparency. In other words, today’s plastic prices no longer reflect production costs alone—they are beginning to incorporate environmental costs that were previously overlooked. This signals a significant shift, where economic and environmental factors are becoming increasingly interconnected. Time to Reduce Plastic and Transition to Sustainable Materials Why Act Now? Rising plastic prices highlight an increasingly unstable dependency Fossil-based plastics are highly vulnerable to geopolitics and energy price fluctuations Environmental costs have not been fully reflected in pricing Global regulatory pressure is intensifying   The Direction of Change: Emerging Material Alternatives 1.      Recycled Plastics (rPET, rPP) Recycled plastics such as rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) and rPP (recycled polypropylene) are among the fastest to be adopted, as they remain within the same “family” as conventional plastics. These materials are derived from collected plastic waste, reprocessed, and reused as raw materials. Their main advantage lies in reducing dependency on virgin plastics while lowering the carbon footprint of production. However, challenges remain in terms of quality and availability. Not all plastic waste can be recycled to the same standard, and collection and sorting infrastructure is still limited in many countries. As a result, recycled plastics are often more expensive than virgin plastics. 2.      Bioplastics (Plant-Based) Bioplastics are made from renewable resources such as corn, sugarcane, or cassava. Unlike conventional fossil-based plastics, they are designed to reduce reliance on petroleum. Some types of bioplastics are also biodegradable or compostable, allowing them to break down more quickly under certain conditions, making them an attractive alternative from an environmental perspective. That said, bioplastics are not without criticism. Production costs remain relatively high, and in some cases, they compete with food resources due to their reliance on agricultural inputs. Additionally, not all bioplastics decompose naturally—some require specialised industrial facilities. 3.      Natural Fibre-Based Packaging (Paper, Bamboo and relevant materials) Materials such as paper, cardboard, and bamboo are increasingly used as substitutes for plastic, particularly in single-use packaging. Their primary advantage is that they are derived from renewable sources and are generally more easily biodegradable. They are also often more readily accepted by consumers, who perceive them as more environmentally friendly. However, trade-offs must be considered. Paper production, for instance, requires significant amounts of water and energy and may contribute to deforestation if not managed sustainably. In terms of performance, these materials are not always as durable or flexible as plastic, particularly for products requiring high strength or moisture resistance. 4.      Reusable Systems (Refill / Return Models) Unlike material-based approaches, reusable systems focus on reducing the need for packaging production altogether. This concept promotes the use of containers that can be reused multiple times, either through refill systems or return schemes. This model is considered one of the most effective solutions within the circular economy  framework, as it directly reduces waste volume. Over time, it can also create cost efficiencies when implemented at scale. However, the main challenge lies in behavioural change. Reusable systems require active consumer participation, as well as supporting infrastructure such as return logistics and proper sanitation processes.   Strategic Opportunities Reducing risks associated with raw material dependency Enhancing brand value and consumer trust Achieving long-term efficiency through circular systems Gaining access to global markets with stricter ESG requirements   Ultimately, rising plastic prices are not merely a cost issue they are a signal of a broader shift. Industries that can adapt to more stable, sustainable packaging systems will be better positioned to navigate future global uncertainties and build resilience. The increase in plastic prices, driven by geopolitical dynamics, highlights an increasingly clear reality: dependence on fossil-based materials is not only unsustainable but also unstable. When global supply chains are disrupted, the impact quickly cascades into production costs and consumer prices, exposing the fragility of a system once considered efficient. The transition towards approaches such as the circular economy is no longer just a strategic option, but a necessity for achieving long-term stability. The adoption of more sustainable packaging, whether through recycled materials, natural alternatives, or reusable systems, represents a critical step in reducing risk while addressing growing environmental pressures. Reference: Hamapu, A. (April 7, 2026). Harga Plastik di Batam Naik hingga 30 Persen, Disperindag: Dampak Global. DetikSumut. https://www.detik.com/sumut/berita/d-8432780/harga-plastik-di-batam-naik-hingga-30-persen-disperindag-dampak-global (August 15, 2024). Pemerintah Siapkan Kebijakan Ekonomi Sirkular untuk Industri Plastik. ANTARA News. https://www.antaranews.com/berita/4263199/pemerintah-siapkan-kebijakan-ekonomi-sirkular-untuk-industri-plastik (April 10, 2026). Harga Plastik Naik, Industri Didorong Bangun Ketahanan di Tengah Tekanan Global. Warta Ekonomi. https://id.investing.com/news/economy-news/harga-plastik-naik-industri-didorong-bangun-ketahanan-di-tengah-tekanan-global-2947794

During the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebrations, Jakarta a city long associated with severe air pollution recorded a remarkable improvement in air quality. For a brief period, Jakarta even surpassed global cities such as Seoul and London in terms of air quality. This event is not merely a fleeting piece of good news, but a significant reflection for sustainability discourse, particularly in the context of urban living and carbon emissions management. Jakarta Air Quality Data During Eid al-Fitr 2026 Throughout the Eid al-Fitr holiday, Jakarta’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hovered around 50, classified as ‘good’—an achievement rarely seen under normal circumstances. In comparison: Seoul recorded a higher AQI than Jakarta London also posted figures above Jakarta In other words, Jakarta briefly transformed into one of the world’s cleanest major cities. Factors Behind Jakarta’s Improved Air Quality Reduced Vehicle Volume Millions of residents left the city to return to their hometowns, leaving streets deserted. Congestion and vehicular emissions dropped dramatically. Road transport remains the main contributor to Jakarta’s air pollution. Slowed Industrial and Office Activities The extended holiday saw many industries and offices close temporarily. Emissions from these sectors fell significantly. Logistics activity also slowed. Lower Energy Consumption With business activities reduced, electricity usage fell. Emissions from power generation also declined. There is a direct correlation between energy consumption and air quality. Direct Positive Impacts Observed by Residents The sky appeared bluer, and the air felt fresher. Visibility increased. Pollution exposure was noticeably reduced. Urban quality of life improved as pollution was curbed. Sustainability Insight: Jakarta as a Low-Emission City Experiment The Lebaran 2026 phenomenon served as a ‘natural laboratory’ for a sustainable city. Key takeaways include: Air pollution is reversible. Changes in human activity have immediate impact. Large cities have significant potential to transform towards environmental friendliness. Jakarta could genuinely become a low emission city with sustained effort. Comparison with Global Cities Although Seoul and London have more advanced transport systems and environmental regulations, air quality is still highly influenced by: Stable economic activities and daily mobility Geographical and weather factors Jakarta experienced an extreme drop in activity, which instantly improved air quality Post-Lebaran: Air Quality Deteriorates Again Unfortunately, the improvement proved temporary. Once residents returned: Vehicles again crowded the streets Industrial and office activity resumed Emissions increased, and Jakarta’s AQI returned to ‘unhealthy’ levels within days This confirms that Jakarta’s pollution problem is not unsolvable, but has yet to be managed consistently. Implications and Recommendations for Sustainability Strategy Government Strengthen public transport Enforce emission restrictions Provide incentives for electric vehicles Adopt sustainability-based urban planning Business Sector Implement ESG strategies Reduce operational carbon footprint Embrace hybrid working policies Society Reduce private vehicle use Increase environmental awareness Adopt sustainable lifestyles Conclusion Jakarta’s experience during Lebaran 2026 demonstrates that clean air is not an impossibility. However, without systemic changes and consistent policy, this achievement will remain seasonal and temporary. Is Jakarta ready to maintain better air quality in a sustainable manner? References Oswaldo, I. G. (11 March 2026). 143.9 Million People Predicted to Travel Home for Lebaran 2026, Majority Using Private Cars. Detik Finance. https://finance.detik Kencana, M. R. (14 March 2026). With Residents Away, Jakarta’s Electricity Consumption Drops by 2,000 MW During Lebaran 2026. Liputan6.com . https://www.liputan6.com Huda, L. (9 April 2025). After Lebaran Holiday, Jakarta’s Air Quality Unhealthy Today. Kompas.com . https://megapolitan.kompas.com/read/ (2024). World Air Quality Index (AQI) Ranking. IQAir. https://www.iqair

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the leading global standard for organic fibre textiles, covering the entire supply chain from raw materials to labelling. It emphasises environmental, social, and value chain transparency. Although voluntary, GOTS is widely recognised in the textile industry as a mark of credibility and sustainability commitment. Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Version 8.0 GOTS Version 8.0 was released on March 2, 2026, and takes effect for all certified entities on March 1, 2027. While a one-year transition period applies, early implementation is strongly encouraged. Previous GOTS versions focused on organic fibre content, chemical restrictions, and social requirements aligned with ILO conventions. Version 8.0 maintains this foundation and adds a systematic, documented due diligence system. Companies must now demonstrate ongoing risk identification, prevention, and mitigation, particularly regarding human rights, homeworkers, and migrant workers. Environmentally, GOTS Version 7.0 focused on prohibited chemicals and waste treatment. GOTS Version 8.0 strengthens chemical input controls with comprehensive evaluations, clarifies approval criteria, and raises expectations for energy efficiency, emission reduction, and wastewater management. This aligns with growing global demands for transparency and reduced environmental impact in the textile industry. Previous versions required Scope and Transaction Certificates for traceability. GOTS Version 8.0 clarifies the system with documentation confirmation, material segregation, and stricter transaction oversight. Companies must maintain an internal management system that consistently documents the flow of organic materials. Governance in GOTS Version 7.0 focused on normative social compliance. Version 8.0 shifts to emphasise management accountability, grievance mechanisms, and transparency of internal policies, moving from compliance to a strategic approach to sustainability management. Structure and Main Contents of GOTS Version 8.0 Standard Principles & Scope Operational scope and material thresholds. • Organic fibre content is at least 70%. • Includes processing, manufacturing, labelling, and distribution. • National legal compliance or GOTS (choose a more stringent one). Supply Chain & Traceability Integrity of organic material grooves. • Used a Scope Certificate (SC)  and Transaction Certificate (TC) . • Obligation to segregate organic matter from non-organic. • A strictly documented internal reporting system. Environmental Criteria Mitigation of the industry's ecological impact. • Efficiency of water and energy use.• Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.• Comprehensive management of liquid and solid waste. Social Criteria & Governance Labor protection and accountability. • Prohibition of forced labor, child labor, and discrimination. • Special protection for migrant and domestic workers . • Implementation of grievance mechanism . Product Compliance Physical and technical quality standards. • Testing of maximum chemical residue values. • Special criteria for food contact textiles. • Application of the principle of product circularity . Chemical Inputs Control of process auxiliaries. • Strict evaluation and approval of dyes and auxiliaries . • Prohibition of hazardous materials based on RSL/MRSL lists. • Direct audit of chemical manufacturers.   The following presents a comparison between the focal areas of the GOTS Version 8.0 update and those of previous versions of the standard. GOTS Version 1-6 Organic Content & Fibre Integrity: Ensuring that the raw materials used were authentically organic. Input Approval: Establishing the foundational rules for verifying every substance that enters the production chain. Chemical Restrictions:  Implementing crucial bans on hazardous chemicals to ensure "clean" production from the start. GOTS Version 7.0 Environmental & Social Compliance: Introducing specific criteria that apply across the entire supply chain, not just the final product. Compliance-Based Structure:  Shifting the focus towards a more structured and monitored approach to standards. Future-Proofing:  Preparing the industry for emerging global challenges and stricter regulations. GOTS Version 8.0 GHG & Climate Management: Introducing mandatory requirements for monitoring carbon footprints and mitigating climate impact. Due Diligence & Governance:  Focusing on advanced, risk-based social due diligence to protect worker dignity. Circularity & Environmental Performance Data: Prioritising textile waste circularity, microfibre release control, and the provision of transparent, verifiable performance data. Core Updates and Strategic Implications Section / Clause GOTS Version 7.0 GOTS Version 8.0 Strategic Implications for Certified Entities Introduction & Scope Defines the standard’s aim to maintain organic integrity from raw material to final product.   Keeps the same goal but adds ESG integration and alignment with global due diligence frameworks. Only full textile products can be certified; mixed items must specify certified textile parts.   Mixed-product makers must adjust labels and ensure transparent, non-misleading claims.   Certification & Auditing Certification mainly based on on-site verification.     Introduces flexibility for digital and hybrid audits. Provides formal guidance for remote audit models (desktop, virtual, live-stream).   Allows hybrid audits and requires digital records, visual evidence, and secure document sharing.   Materials & Accessories No specific reference to microplastics or synthetics.   Prohibits virgin synthetics ; only recycled synthetics permitted, subject to strict documentation. Adds microplastic restriction aligned with EU & OECD environmental policies. Must update accessory specs to meet microplastic limits and ensure traceable recycled inputs.   Due Diligence Process Six-step process, aligned with OECD, recommended but not mandatory.   Due diligence becomes a core and mandatory  element of certification. Adds gender-aware due diligence, multi-source checks, stakeholder input, and clear communication.   Requires a documented due diligence system with risk, grievance, and remediation processes.   Environmental Criteria Focused on wastewater, energy, and waste management.   Expands to include GHG management, air emissions, textile waste, and circularity principles. Requires an Environmental & Chemical Policy and ZDHC wastewater rules.   Requires GHG targets, energy/water tracking, and ZDHC-aligned wastewater testing.   Human Rights & Social Criteria Six-step process, aligned with OECD, recommended but not mandatory.   Covers gender equality, harassment prevention, worker protection, and living-wage checks. Adds ILO instruments, climate-wellbeing clauses, and wage policy requirements.   Requires gender-equality policies, climate-resilience measures, and living-wage reviews.   Governance Criteria Limited attention to governance or anti-corruption.   Becomes a dedicated section of the standard. Adds governance rules on transparency, anti-corruption, conflicts of interest, and ESG disclosure. Adds requirement for supply chain actors to provide data (e.g., energy use, material inputs, transport distance, etc.) for product-level GHG emissions calculation.   Must set governance policies, assign ESG oversight, and publish periodic sustainability reports.   Product Technical Quality Defines residue limits (pesticides, heavy metals) and quality tests.   Tightens residue limits; introduces Section 5.3 Circularity Principles. Requires ISO 5354-1/2 GMO tests and protects pesticide limits.   Requires ISO GMO tests for cotton and circularity measures.     Overall, GOTS Version 8.0 establishes a more comprehensive sustainability framework for the textile industry, while its manual ensures the standard can be applied consistently, verified, and maintained as credible worldwide. For more details on the GOTS Version 8.0 update, please refer to the following material: Global Organic Textile Standard v 8.0 Manual for the Implementation of GOTS v 8.0

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Building a greener future, one business at a time. Partner with our experts to integrate sustainable practices into your core operations and lead the sustainability transition. Apprenticeship - Copy Writer Provides essential support to ensure the smooth operation of copywriting projects and initiatives. This role involves managing schedules, organizing meetings, handling communications, and maintaining project documentation. Additionally, the intern assists in writing, editing, and proofreading reports, designing and styling reports, and creating media campaigns and catalogues. The intern will also develop social media ads, prepare final reports, and create creative and innovative proposals, offers, and tenders. The goal is to facilitate efficient project workflows and support the copywriting team’s efforts to produce high-quality content for various platforms and campaigns. Mail your CV to: HRindonesia@onepeterson.com JOB DESCRIPTION Write, redact, and proofread a report Designing and styling a report Media campaigns and catalogs Social media ads Assist & support the team in preparing a final report Creating a creative and innovative proposal/offer/tender REQUIREMENTS Degree in Journalistic, English literature, Business Management or a related field Writing, reading, editing and proofreading skills Effective research skills and the ability to tell stories through numbers and stats Strong ability to manage time and organize Awareness of online content and various marketing strategies Ability to adapt to different guidelines, writing styles and brand tones with ease Familiarity with different social media channels to tailor content specific to each platform Up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in the field or domain you’re writing about to make sure your copy is not outdated or irrelevant Experience with collaboration and project management tools to make it easier to collaborate with different team members on multiple projects Experience with search engine optimization (SEO) What Our Ex-Apprentices Say Andi Ghazali, now as Sustainability Consultant at Peterson "My three-month apprenticeship as an admin at Peterson honed my project management skills and deepened my understanding of sustainability. The supportive environment and experienced team led to my advancement to a Junior Sustainability Consultant role here for 2 years and fully release the "Junior" title in 2025. This opportunity has been incredibly rewarding and a testament to the valuable experience gained."

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