Heaptalk, Jakarta — Viessmann Climate Solutions, a German provider of heating, water, and air quality technology, partnered with Pandawara, a group of environmental activists, to clean up the Saroja River in Margaasih District, Bandung Regency, West Java Province (05/26).
The river cleanup initiative successfully collected 3.9 tons of waste, predominantly household waste, plastic bottles, food scraps, packaging, and other non-organic trash. This effort is part of Viessmann’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitment to sustainability and community development, marking its first CSR activity in Indonesia.
“Collaborating with Viessmann, we successfully cleaned up a massive pile of garbage around the Saroja River, joined by 63 volunteers. This heavily polluted area has adversely affected the local community and increased the risk of waterborne diseases,” said Muchamad Ikhsan Destian, a member of the Pandawara Group.
Most of rivers in Indonesia contaminated
According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data, Indonesia is grappling with a severe water pollution crisis, with most of its rivers contaminated in 2022. Of the 111 rivers identified, only 8.1% met quality standards, while the remaining 91.9% fell into various pollution categories. This alarming data underscores the urgent need for initiatives such as the river cleanup to restore and protect vital water sources in the country.
As part of Viessmann’s Climate Champion campaign, young environmental activists, known as Climate Champion Warriors, are provided with resources and opportunities to make a tangible impact on their communities. This initiative has empowered them to become advocates for positive change and fostered a spirit of environmental care in their areas.
Viessmann partnered with the Pandawara Group to initiate the river cleanup, involving the younger generation as environmental activists with a common goal. “By empowering the youth and fostering public and private partnerships, we hope to create a long-term impact that goes beyond river cleanups. This initiative is part of our efforts to help build a sustainable future for the next generations in Indonesia,” stated Richard Chua, Head of Sales Southeast Asia at Viessmann Climate Solutions.
During the river cleanup, Viessmann showcased its VitoTruck product demo truck. Richard added, “The truck allows participants and locals to try pure water processed by Viessmann’s water filters, demonstrating the direct benefits of clean water technology and raising awareness of the importance of water quality.”
Viessmann is dedicated to providing clean water in Indonesia through its Vitopure purification systems, ensuring communities have access to healthy water. Going forward, the company will continue to foster partnerships and initiatives to tackle environmental challenges and build resilient communities.