RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesian House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has called the recent surge in plastic prices an opportunity to accelerate Indonesia’s transition toward a green economy. She urged the public to return to traditional packaging made from organic, eco‑friendly materials.

“Although plastic is necessary in daily life due to its practicality, we all know its ecological burden is very high. Therefore, the rise in plastic prices can catalyze us to shift to a green economy,” Puan said in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Plastic prices in Indonesia reportedly jumped by up to 80 percent in April, with the industry relying on imported raw materials for 60 percent of its supply. The shortage has triggered a domestic supply crisis, hitting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) hardest.

Puan noted that small business owners, particularly food vendors, are struggling as they depend heavily on single‑use plastic packaging. She suggested that merchants adopt natural alternatives such as banana or teak leaves, which are more affordable and proven to preserve freshness and aroma. “By using organic packaging, business owners can avoid economic pressure from costly imports while also increasing product value,” she said.

She emphasized that natural packaging supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by making waste management easier and promoting long‑term ecosystem sustainability. “Organic packaging rooted in local wisdom is also a creative economic innovation. It supports Indonesia’s cultural heritage while advancing an eco‑friendly movement,” Puan added.

Highlighting the global impact of plastic waste, which pollutes aquatic ecosystems with tens of millions of tons annually, Puan said the current price surge should motivate Indonesia to seek alternatives that reduce plastic consumption.

She urged the government to back this transition, calling on relevant ministries to collaborate on regulatory frameworks and launch nationwide awareness campaigns promoting traditional packaging. (Gusti Panji/Lasti Martina)