On July 3rd, 2024, Indonesia celebrated the launch of its Circular Economy Roadmap at the Green Economy Expo 2024 in Jakarta. Together with Fashion for Good, Infinited Fiber Company, and BlockTexx, we had the honor of attending the signing of the roadmap by the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) and the Ministry of Economic Affairs. The event was also supported by the Ambassador of the United Kingdom, the Ambassador of Denmark, the Ambassador of the EU, and the resident representative of the UNDP Ambassadors.

The newly defined roadmap focuses on targets in five priority sectors: 1)food and beverages, 2) textiles, 3) construction, 4) plastic, and 5) electronics. This initiative is crucial for transitioning Indonesia towards a more sustainable economic model, promoting resource efficiency, and reducing environmental impacts. Specifically for the textile industry, the roadmap outlines three main strategies:

1. The first strategy is to strengthen and develop the textile infrastructure ecosystem while implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) within the sector. 
2. The second strategy aims to reduce textile waste and increase the use of recycled materials in textile production. 
3. The final strategy focuses on enhancing resource efficiency throughout the textile production process.

The roadmap was launched as part of the main agenda at the Green Economy Expo in Jakarta. During the expo, there were numerous engaging Talks on Circularity with insightful presenters from governments and industry players. Additionally, an exciting exhibition showcased many innovative startups and initiatives focused on circularity. Notable among them was EcoTouch, a startup producing environmentally friendly products from recycled textile waste. There were also many other innovative business models on display, highlighting the vibrant ecosystem of circular economy solutions in Indonesia.

We look forward to witnessing the positive impacts of this roadmap on both the environment and the economy. Stay tuned as we provide updates on the actions being taken as the roadmap begins to shape into a concrete Action Plan for the textile industry in Indonesia.