RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Yogyakarta Province residents can now convert their used cooking oil into digital currency as State-owned Oil Company PT Pertamina Patra Niaga officially launched 10 "U-Collect Box" stations across the province.

This sustainable initiative aims to mitigate household waste pollution while providing a direct financial incentive for the community. It effectively turns environmental hazards into new economic opportunities.

As reported by Antara, the expansion to Yogyakarta follows a highly successful six-month pilot in Semarang, Central Java, which saw the collection of 143,545 liters of used oil. This effort translated into a substantial economic gain for participants, with a total of IDR 796 million (USD 47,361) distributed back to the public.

Under the current program, every liter of used cooking oil submitted is valued at IDR 5,500 (USD 0.33), which is credited directly as a digital balance via the MyPertamina app.

Speaking in Yogyakarta on Monday, February 23, 2026, Area Manager of Communication, Relations, & CSR for Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Central Java, Taufiq Kurniawan emphasized the company's commitment to green energy and social welfare.

"Following the success in Semarang, we are extending the 'U-Collect' placement to Yogyakarta as a tangible step in encouraging more environmentally friendly waste management while providing economic benefits to the community," said Taufiq.

The process is designed for modern convenience through a digital-first approach. Participants simply access the "Sustainability Corner" on the MyPertamina app, select the option to convert oil to currency, and scan a QR code at the physical collection box.

The machine automatically calculates the volume and instantly updates the user's balance. Taufiq noted that through this digital mechanism, the exchange process becomes more practical, transparent, and systematically recorded.

Strategically placed to ensure maximum accessibility, the 10 collection points are located near high-density residential areas, markets, and restaurants. The current stations include the Lempuyangan, Dukuh, and Cokroaminoto COCO gas stations in the city, the iconic Jogokariyan Mosque, and several key locations in Sleman and Bantul, such as the Maguwo, Monjali, and UII gas stations.

The program has already received a warm reception from local entrepreneurs who previously struggled with waste disposal. Ricca Pricillia, a 31-year-old vendor at the Jogokariyan Ramadan Village, shared her positive experience with the new system.

"Usually, used oil is just thrown away, but now it can be exchanged for money. The process is easy, you just go through the app and deposit it at the MyPertamina 'U-Collect Box.' This is very beneficial and much better for the environment," remarked Ricca. ***