Yogyakarta, June 10th 2025. This was more than just an ordinary day for me and hundreds of other participants. We had the chance to be part of “Funtastic Without Plastic: Save Nature for the Future,” a remarkable initiative by the Environmental Science Master Program at the UGM Graduate School. Held on May 31st 2025, the event commemorated World Environment Day 2025. It truly felt like the activity surpassed all expectations, transforming knowledge into tangible, heartfelt action.
The event began with a seminar at Parangtritis Geomaritime Science Park, where I immediately felt the importance of learning in a relevant location. Listening to the presentation by Dr. Ir. Ammy Nurwati, M.M., from the Ministry of Forestry concerning biodiversity conservation, opened my eyes to Indonesia’s rich natural heritage and the immense challenges of its preservation. Furthermore, the session led by Daru Aji Saputra S.Si., Founder of Yayasan Aksi Konservasi Yogyakarta (Fourkey Yogyakarta), was truly inspiring. He successfully ignited our passion, as young people, not only to care but also to take concrete action in ending plastic pollution and preserving coastal ecosystems.
The hybrid atmosphere of the seminar also felt dynamic. Although 70 offline participants, including myself, experienced the beach ambiance firsthand – a silent witness to the impact of plastic pollution – the presence of 130 online participants from various regions enriched the discussions. I felt I was not alone in my concern for the environment, but rather part of a larger movement. The theoretical understanding we gained served as a strong foundation for the subsequent activities.
After the seminar, our enthusiasm was directly channeled into environmental care action at Pelangi Beach. Joining 150 other participants, including volunteers from Fourkey Yogyakarta, we worked hand-in-hand to clean the beach. This was more than just picking up trash; it was a moment of reflection on the severe impact of plastic pollution. Every bottle, bag, or plastic fragment we collected was tangible evidence of the crisis we encountered.
However, the activities didn’t stop there. We also participated in planting 400 mangrove seedlings. It felt incredibly proud to contribute directly in the restoration of coastal ecosystems, knowing that every seedling we planted would become a protector of the coast from erosion and a habitat for various coastal fauna. The highlight was the release of 90 hatchlings. Seeing those small turtles swim towards the open sea brought an indescribable feeling of emotion and hope. This is a long-term investment for the sustainability of the turtle population and our marine ecosystems.
As a university student, this event provided invaluable learning experience. This was true experiential learning, strengthening our understanding of complex environmental issues and how we can be part of the solution. UGM, through this event, not only educated us academically but also inspired us to become agents of change in society.
“Funtastic Without Plastic” is more than just an event; it’s a movement. It’s proof that collaboration between academics, civil society organizations, and active youth participation can create a tangible impact. I hope that such activities will continue, spark broader awareness, and lead us all towards a more sustainable future.
Author: Berlian Belasuni