RRI.CO.ID, Malang - Indonesia's Brawijaya University (UB) has taken a bold step toward embedding sustainability into campus life by partnering with East Java-based PT LyondellBasell, a company specializing in plastics and polymer solutions.

The collaboration was marked by the inauguration of a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) at the Rectorate Building, an initiative designed to promote circular economy practices and foster a culture of environmental responsibility. The launch took place on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

UB Rector Widodo emphasized the importance of bridging academia and industry in advancing sustainability goals. “We are working with PT LyondellBasell, which has shown extraordinary commitment to the circular economy,” he explained, as quoted on the university's official website on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

"This collaboration is crucial because sustainability goals are complex, and we must harness the collective potential of academia and industry," he added.

The RVM system rewards users who deposit empty beverage containers with points that can be claimed through a barcode scan. Head of UPT UB Green Campus, Sri Suhartini, detailed the machine’s operation and its planned deployment across campus.

“RVMs will be placed at several points in UB, including Creative Land, Halalan Toyyiban, the Library, and other strategic locations,” she said, highlighting that the collaboration extends beyond technology adoption, involving knowledge transfer from PT LyondellBasell to UB students.

“We need to change student habits because introducing technology alone is not enough. The collaboration includes technology introduction, campus inauguration, education through media, and interactive workshops,” she added.

From the industry’s perspective, PT LyondellBasell sees UB as a strategic partner with its large student body. PT LyondellBasell representative Rolf van Beck underscored the broader vision behind the initiative.

“For me, this is about generating new ideas and opportunities on how we apply circular economy principles and address plastic waste challenges,” he noted.

With 70,000 students, UB represents a significant platform for shaping future leaders who are environmentally conscious. The partnership is expected to not only reduce plastic waste but also instill sustainable practices that align with global efforts to combat environmental challenges. ***