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July 07.2025
3 Minutes Read

Nickel Industries' Sustainability Chief Muchtazar: Balancing Profit and Planet

Businessman speaking at a conference on sustainable living.

Nickel's Dual Nature: A Path to Sustainable Energy

As the race for sustainable energy intensifies, Indonesia's nickel industry emerges as a crucial player in powering the future of electric vehicles (EVs). Nickel is a key component in EV batteries, and its demand is skyrocketing due to the global shift towards greener technologies. However, this booming demand brings with it serious environmental challenges, with significant scrutiny on the industry's ecological footprint.

Understanding Muchtazar's Role in Sustainability

Meet Muchtazar, the sustainability head at Nickel Industries who holds a pivotal role in ensuring that the company's operations align with both profitability and environmental integrity. With a background at Unilever Indonesia, he has a strong foundation in corporate sustainability practices. Muchtazar advocates for a strategic shift in the industry, emphasizing that sustainability should be more than just regulatory compliance; it needs to embed itself into the core of corporate governance.

A Day in the Life: Balancing Profit and Planet

Muchtazar's day begins at 5:00 AM with a brisk workout followed by a short prayer—setting a tone of mindfulness and purpose. His mornings are often spent organizing team meetings to discuss ongoing projects that aim to align nickel mining with eco-friendly practices. From advocating for responsible sourcing to promoting circular economy principles, Muchtazar emphasizes the importance of sustainability initiatives at every level of the organization.

The Broader Implications of Nickel Mining on the Environment

Despite allowing the global transition to cleaner energy, nickel mining has dire environmental consequences. Reports indicate that nickel mining in Indonesia has become the leading cause of deforestation in the region, surpassing palm oil cultivation. This mining practice not only destabilizes ecosystems but also contributes to soil degradation and water pollution.

In conversations with Eco-Business, Muchtazar acknowledged the critical need for the industry to adopt sustainable practices that minimize harm. He believes that education on responsible consumption and sustainable practices is vital for the collective effort against climate change.

Encouraging Industry-Wide Changes

As Muchtazar continues his work, he hopes that more players in the nickel industry will recognize the importance of fostering a culture of sustainability. “We need to create awareness about the ecological impact of our actions,” he stated. As a leader, he advocates for a shift in mindset, pushing for policies that support sustainable agriculture, circular economy initiatives, and ethical sourcing.

Pragmatism Meets Purpose: A Vision for the Future

His vision is that of a future where the extraction of nickel does not come at the cost of environmental degradation. “We can no longer view sustainability as optional; it is essential,” Muchtazar insists. As industries grapple with balance, the potential for collaboration and innovation to lead the way in eco-friendly practices remains bright.

The Call for Community Engagement

Furthermore, the role of sustainability professionals must extend beyond their organizations to their communities. Muchtazar emphasizes the importance of community engagement, urging local leaders and citizens to adopt sustainable living practices, such as composting, urban gardening, and responsible consumption.

There is hope when industry leaders like Muchtazar take a stand. As consumers, supporting sustainable businesses and products is just as crucial. Choosing eco-friendly transportation options or opting for renewable energy can help reduce our carbon footprints. This collective effort can pave the way toward a more sustainable future.

Sustainability and Green Business

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07.07.2025

Bridging the Digital Divide: Essential Steps Towards Inclusivity

Update Understanding the Global Digital Divide In today's connected world, the internet is vital for economic, educational, and social success. Yet, a staggering 2.6 billion people remain completely offline, intensifying the digital divide that separates nations and communities. This exclusion is not just a statistic; it represents lost opportunities, diminished potential, and increasing inequality. As the head of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), Deemah AlYahya emphasizes the urgency of bridging this gap, proclaiming: 'Global digital transformation won’t be truly transformative unless it’s inclusive.' Why Digital Inclusion Is Crucial Digital inclusion is foundational for any society striving for equitable growth. To foster a resilient digital economy, barriers must be dismantled, particularly for women, youth, and marginalized communities. Initiatives like WE-Elevate are specifically tailored to empower women-led businesses in emerging markets such as Rwanda, Gambia, and Nigeria. By providing digital skills training and e-commerce platforms with integrated logistics, these programs aim not only to connect but to help individuals thrive in the digital marketplace. The Challenge of Varied Progress Despite the progress being made, the disparity in digital readiness among countries presents a significant challenge. High-income countries benefit from robust digital infrastructure and governance, while low-income countries struggle to establish basic connections. AlYahya notes the importance of sustained dialogue and trust-building across nations as a prerequisite to finding common ground for collaboration. Envisioning a Sustainable Digital Future Looking ahead, the DCO has ambitious plans for 2030. The integration of AI and automation is expected to revolutionize businesses worldwide, but this offers both opportunities and potential disruptions. The organization's long-term goal is to ensure that the benefits of digital advancement are shared equitably across all communities. Success metrics will not merely focus on technological uptake but will also assess whether individuals and communities are truly gaining from their online presence. Local Efforts for Global Impact As digital initiatives expand, local communities have a crucial role in shaping the global conversation around digital access. For instance, community gardens and local markets leveraging e-commerce not only provide economic opportunities but also foster social connections. This grassroots approach ensures sustainability while promoting ethical consumerism through local, organic products. How the Digital Divide Affects Environmental Sustainability The intersection of digital inclusion and sustainability cannot be overstated. Access to information and tools through digital platforms can significantly empower communities to adopt sustainable lifestyles. From promoting renewable energy solutions to enabling better waste management practices, an inclusive digital environment supports global efforts to combat issues like plastic pollution and climate change. Conclusion: The Path Forward Addressing the digital divide is not just about connecting people to the internet. It requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes sustainability, social responsibility, and community empowerment. As readers, embracing sustainable living practices—be it through conscious consumption or supporting local green businesses—contributes to a more equitable future for everyone. Knowing this, consider how your day-to-day choices can impact the world around you and how you can get involved in supporting and demanding digital access in your own community.

07.07.2025

Why Stable Land Leases Are Crucial for Singapore's Solar Energy Future

Update EDP's Vision for Solar Growth in Singapore In the pursuit of a sustainable future, EDP Renewables, one of the world’s leading renewable energy providers, is urging the Singapore government to explore more stable and long-term land use rights for solar deployment. Currently, land leasing arrangements in Singapore are often temporary, which poses significant challenges for long-term solar installations. Filipa Ricciardi, Asia Pacific Executive Director of EDP Renewables, highlighted the company’s commitment to enhancing solar capacity in Singapore, a city-state facing land scarcity. Despite attempts to maximize unused spaces, the temporary nature of land leases has hindered solar expansion, making it challenging to meet the increasing demand for clean energy from corporate investors. Understanding the Nature of Land Leases The prevailing land leasing system in Singapore provides licenses that are often limited to short terms, typically up to three years but can extend to 21 years under the JTC's SolarLand initiative. These licenses allow companies to convert temporarily vacant plots into solar farms, thus supporting Singapore’s goal of installing 2 GWp of solar energy by 2030. However, Ricciardi advocates for a more extended lease period of up to 35 years, aligning better with the lifespan of solar panels, which is generally between 25 to 30 years. This would not only provide reassurance to developers but also attract more investments in renewable energy. The Role of Corporations in Solar Adoption As demand for solar energy surges, particularly from large corporations leveraging Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), the need for a stable foundation for solar projects becomes paramount. According to Ricciardi, many companies are looking at solar as a viable power solution, emphasizing the need for more permanent land arrangements to foster growth and reliability. The current instability around land usage rights creates uncertainty, inhibiting companies from potentially larger and more impactful investments in green technologies. As the corporate sector increasingly strives for sustainability, the importance of stable land access cannot be overstated. Future Predictions: Solar Energy’s Trajectory Looking ahead, the renewable energy sector is likely to face both challenges and opportunities in Singapore. If land use policies shift towards more permanent solutions, we might see a faster realization of the city's ambitious solar goals. In contrast, any continued preservation of the temporary leases might stall growth. Moreover, the shift towards electric vehicles and other green technologies may further escalate the demand for renewable energy, spotlighting the importance of rebates or incentives for both consumer and corporate adoption of solar technologies. Counterarguments: The Challenges Ahead While calls for longer-term leases resonate within the renewable sector, it’s essential to consider the complexities involved. The Singapore government aims to optimize limited land resources, often prioritizing flexibility over permanence. Addressing concerns from urban planners about maintaining city functionality and ecological balance presents an ongoing challenge. Critics may argue that the push for long-term leases could sideline equally valuable discussions around other sustainable practices, such as increasing the efficiency of existing solar technologies or investing in innovative space-saving structures that do not rely on permanent land ownership. Community Insights and Corporate Responsibility For eco-conscious readers, EDP Renewables’ situation exemplifies how corporate responsibility is intricately linked to sustainable development. As more corporations pursue eco-friendly products and initiatives, their advocacy can inspire broader shifts in environmental policy. The message is clear: fostering a sustainable community relies not only on individual actions but also on collaborative efforts between governments, corporations, and local populations. Land-related issues present intricate vectors for environmental stewardship, impacting not just the companies involved, but the overall climate action ethos in Singapore. Your Role in Promoting Renewable Energy Citizens play an essential role in advocating for change. Engaging in community discussions, supporting local initiatives, and promoting policies that prioritize sustainable living can amplify the impact of corporations striving for a greener future. Encouraging local governments to adopt flexible policies can open doors to innovative renewable energy solutions while reducing the carbon footprint on the planet. Conclusion: A Call to Action As we reflect on the urgent need for clean energy solutions, it's essential for all of us to consider how we can contribute. Whether through supporting sustainable businesses or advocating for environmental policies that favor long-term solutions, each action counts towards a greener future. For updates on sustainable practices, initiatives you can embrace, and ways to engage in climate action, stay connected with local environmental groups or subscribe to sustainability newsletters. Together, we can empower our communities toward a truly sustainable future.

07.07.2025

Queer Filipinos Lead the Charge for Climate Inclusion Amidst Disasters

Update Understanding Climate Justice Through a Queer LensIn a world facing mounting environmental challenges, the intersectionality of climate change and LGBTQIA+ rights has become an urgent topic of discussion, especially within vulnerable communities in the Philippines. Queer Filipinos are not only advocating for environmental justice but also addressing the unique challenges posed by climate change on their livelihoods and health. With natural disasters exacerbating existing inequalities, this community's fight for inclusion in climate discussions is crucial for the sustainability of both their lives and the planet.Climate Change and Vulnerability in the PhilippinesThe Philippines ranks among the top countries most vulnerable to climate catastrophes. Frequent typhoons and rising sea levels are part of daily life for many Filipinos, impacting access to vital services such as healthcare and housing. For LGBTQIA+ individuals, these challenges are compounded by systemic discrimination that often leaves them at the margins of disaster response efforts. A recent study highlighted that natural disasters disrupt essential services, including HIV treatment and safe shelter options, leaving this community precariously exposed.The Role of Artistic Expression in AdvocacyActivists like Ghillean Pranz Fegidero, who performs under the drag persona Celestia, have taken it upon themselves to elevate queer voices in high-stakes environmental discussions. By blending artistry with advocacy, they challenge conventions and bring attention to the pressing need for inclusive climate action. "Bringing my drag into the climate activism space is my love letter to the queer community," Celestia stated, underscoring how creative expressions can serve as powerful tools for advocacy.Historical Context: Resilience Amidst AdversityThe resilience of LGBTQIA+ Filipinos is historically rooted, demonstrated through community-led efforts in disaster response and mutual aid. Grassroots organizations, often led by queer individuals, have become lifelines during crises, mobilizing resources and providing support when formal systems fail. This historical context emphasizes the importance of recognizing diverse voices in the climate movement.Future Predictions: The Path Forward for Queer Climate ActivismLooking ahead, the demands for climate justice will intensify, necessitating the inclusion of marginalized voices, especially from the LGBTQIA+ community. As climate-related events become more frequent, queer activists are likely to play a vital role in shaping policies that are equitable and effective. Embracing a holistic approach that acknowledges unique vulnerabilities and fosters collaboration among diverse groups will be essential in constructing a more sustainable future.Inspirational Quotes That Ignite ChangeActivists from within the community have offered compelling insights that resonate well beyond their contexts. One statement stands out: "Drag is a form of protest against oppressive systems. It’s powerful – and we shouldn’t forget that.” Such sentiments encapsulate the essence of how artistic expression can serve as both a catalyst for change and a means of celebrating identity.The Emotional Impact of Climate UncertaintiesFor many within the LGBTQIA+ community, the emotional toll of climate change is profound. The fear of losing livelihoods and support systems due to increasing natural disasters often leads to anxiety and despair. However, this community’s resilience shines through as they draw on their historical strength to support one another, demonstrating solidarity in their fight for survivability and climate justice.Conscious Living and Eco-Friendly PracticesAs activists advocate for climate inclusion, there is a simultaneous push for more sustainable ways of living. Many queer Filipinos are integrating eco-friendly practices in their everyday lives, highlighting the importance of sustainable agriculture, reducing waste, and ethical consumerism. Advocates encourage community connections that center sustainability, helping to build stronger, resilient networks that can withstand the impacts of climate change.Call to Action: Join the Fight for Climate InclusionThe fight for climate justice is one that encompasses all communities, especially those that have been historically marginalized. Everyone has a role to play in advocating for inclusive policymaking that considers the vulnerabilities of the LGBTQIA+ community amidst climate change. Engaging in sustainable practices, supporting queer-led initiatives, and amplifying their voices in environmental conversations are crucial steps toward building a more equitable and just society.

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