Regional Workshop Campus on Sustainability: “Let’s Change: What, When, Where, Who, Why, and How, to be more sustainable on campus?”

18 - 19 October 2023, Trisakti University, Jakarta

Day 1: The workshop kicked off with the enthusiastic opening by the Vice Rector, a prominent dentist, setting the stage for a two-day exploration into sustainable practices on campus.

Yanuar Nugroho Ph.D. took the stage, addressing the unique challenges facing Indonesia in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. He emphasized the need for continuous efforts and coordination, highlighting that Indonesia has already integrated these targets into its national development plan.

The audience then heard from Prof. Madya Dr. Azanizawati Bt Ma'aram, who shared the inspiring journey of UTM, a university that became the global leader in SDG7 (affordable and clean energy). UTM's timeline showcased a comprehensive approach, from the initiation of sustainable units to the establishment of the UTM Center of Sustainability.

A lively talkshow followed, with Prof. Riri Fitri Sari discussing the global push for universities to become green and sustainable. Examples from UI GreenMetric showcased innovative practices worldwide, including the use of green infrastructure, smart buildings, and impactful education and research.

Dr. Dian Mardi Safitri,ST,MT. facilitated a focused group discussion (FGD) involving students, society representatives, and facility officers, aimed at brainstorming ways to make the world more sustainable. The day concluded with a role-playing activity that underlined the importance of collective engagement in achieving sustainability.

Day 1 Conclusion: Participants delved into the intricacies of SDGs, drawing inspiration from UTM's success and understanding the significance of green university rankings. The engaging activities underscored the imperative for collaborative efforts.

Day 2: Day 2 began with Billy Mambasar addressing Indonesia's status as a major contributor to plastic waste. He highlighted the importance of literacy centers and SGDs, emphasizing the need for tangible, measurable impacts through SGDs centers on campuses.

Prof. John Lee brought a top-down perspective, emphasizing the century-old concept of institutional leadership in sustainability. The importance of carbon consciousness and the role of technology in achieving sustainability were key themes.

A commercial presentation from NTU highlighted technology as an enabler of sustainability, emphasizing the need for universities to commercialize patents. The workshop then heard from Hedi Santoso of Schneider Electric, who shared strategies for sustainable success, including digitization and decarbonization.

Sugiarto Romeli added a practical dimension, discussing the use of direct sunlight solar radiation for drying, promoting green energy practices.

Day 2 Conclusion: The second day unfolded with a rich narrative, covering diverse aspects of sustainability. From societal challenges to top-down strategies and technological enablers, the day provided a holistic understanding of what it takes to foster sustainability on university campuses.

In the end, participants left the workshop with a wealth of insights, inspired to instigate change and engage collectively to make their campuses and the world more sustainable.