PT Mowilex Indonesia (Mowilex) has successfully fulfilled its pledge to plant 50,000 mangrove trees by establishing 25,000 trees at Sungai Kupah, West Kalimantan. This initiative, in collaboration with local environmental hero Rudi Hartono, aims to protect the environment and support the livelihoods of residents in Sungai Kupah Village.
The project, which concluded in October, represents Mowilex’s dedication to sustainability and environmental conservation. Previous tree plantings took place in Bali, North Sumatra, and Belitung. By partnering with Rudi Hartono, a young advocate recognized with the prestigious Kalpataru Award for his commitment to environmental initiatives, Mowilex ensures the successful implementation of this important ecological project.
The loss of global mangrove forests, estimated at 35% between 1980 and 2000, poses severe threats to coastal communities. In the case of the Kupah River in West Kalimantan, many mangroves were cleared to accommodate shrimp farms, building materials, and charcoal production. However, mangroves play a critical role in carbon storage, acting as a natural defense against flooding, typhoons, and erosion. Additionally, they provide filtration for nitrates and phosphates, improving water quality.
The deforestation of mangroves has resulted in seawater flooding in Kupah River Village. By supporting Rudi Hartono’s mangrove replanting efforts, Mowilex is actively contributing to the protection of beaches, reducing flood risks, and creating new habitats for various species of fish, birds, and other wildlife.
Hartono expressed his gratitude, stating, Kupah River Village is very grateful for Mowilex’s support to plant 25,000 mangrove seedlings. This is an investment to save the environment and also a community income source, allowing residents to sell mangrove seedlings, soap made from mangroves, as well as natural products such as shrimp, crabs, and fish, which the community can process into chips.
Niko Safavi, CEO of PT Mowilex Indonesia, emphasized the importance of addressing community needs in addition to carbon reduction efforts. Mowilex has attained carbon neutrality for four consecutive years, but Safavi acknowledges that measuring the true environmental impact of industrial activities requires a comprehensive approach. By fulfilling their tree-planting commitment, Mowilex demonstrates its long-term commitment to supporting local communities while working towards a more sustainable future.
Prior to the completion of the West Kalimantan project, Mowilex planted 5,000 mangroves near the Tukad Mati River in Bali, 10,000 mangroves in Pasar Rawa Village, Langkat, North Sumatra, and 10,000 mangroves in Juru Seberang Village, Belitung. Each of these initiatives enhances local ecosystems and benefits the surrounding communities.
Mowilex, a subsidiary of Asia Coatings Enterprises, Pte. Ltd., is renowned for being Indonesia’s first certified carbon-neutral manufacturer. The company continually prioritizes environmental ethics, equality, community, and innovation. As an industry leader in producing premium paints and coatings, Mowilex actively seeks ways to reduce its environmental impact and regularly receives recognition for its corporate social responsibility and sustainability efforts.
For more information about Mowilex ESG programs and products, please visit Mowilex.com.
