Indonesian students turn school waste into valuable compost

PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara (AMMAN) is fostering environmental stewardship among thousands of students in West Sumbawa Regency through its School Waste Management Program (PPSS). This initiative integrates environmental education with circular economy principles, transforming organic waste into valuable compost.

Students and teachers actively participate in waste segregation and processing at the "Rumah Kompos" (Compost House), producing "POSTA" (Our School Organic Fertilizer). This compost serves various needs, including school grounds, community use, agriculture, and AMMAN's operational reclamation activities. The program aims to position schools as hubs for environmental knowledge and behavioral change, extending its influence to families and the wider community.

"Through this program, AMMAN is helping to build an ecosystem that develops future generations responsible for the environment," said Priyo Pramono, Vice President of Policy & Permitting and Social Impact at AMMAN. "The success of PPSS is evident not only in the amount of waste managed but in the growing awareness that waste has value when handled correctly. When this understanding takes root among students, teachers, and families, its impact spreads from schools to the community."

Launched in 2022, PPSS has expanded from two pilot schools to six active schools, engaging thousands of students, teachers, parents, community members, and dozens of AMMAN employee volunteers. Between 2022 and 2025, the program successfully managed over 150 tons of organic waste, yielding more than 50 tons of POSTA compost. It also contributed to avoiding approximately 11 tons of emissions in 2025 and recorded a Social Return on Investment (SROI) of 4.09, indicating that every Rp1 invested generated Rp4.09 in social, economic, and environmental value.

AMMAN reports that the waste management model is being independently replicated by schools outside the program. Several partner schools have also received Adiwiyata awards at provincial and national levels for their environmental management practices. In recognition of its innovative approach, AMMAN received the Waste Management award at the Lestari Awards 2026.

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With this program, AMMAN is helping to build an ecosystem that develops future generations responsible for the environment. The success of PPSS is evident not only in the amount of waste managed but in the growing awareness that waste has value when handled correctly. When this understanding takes root among students, teachers, and families, its impact spreads from schools to the community.