Exchanging Plastic Waste for Daily Necessities to Build Economic Resilience with Local Communities in Bintan

CarbonEthics is thrilled to announce our initiative to support local economic growth and empower coastal communities to thrive. As part of our ongoing efforts, CarbonEthics supports building economic resilience with local communities in Bintan through innovative and inclusive programs that connect environmental action with everyday needs. Through the Benefit Sharing Plan (BSP) program, CarbonEthics together with the local community has opened the Warung Sembako, a community store where residents can exchange plastic waste for daily necessities.  This milestone is a new step forward in our mission to support coastal communities through sustainable and inclusive economic opportunities.

How Does It Work?

This program is designed to make it simple and rewarding for local communities to turn plastic waste into something valuable. By encouraging a circular economy, it not only reduces pollution but also supports everyday needs in a sustainable way. Here's how the system works:

1. Collect & Weigh

Community members bring their collected plastic waste to the designated Warung Sembako (community shop).

2. Earn Points

After weighing, the waste is converted into points. The number of points earned depends on the type and quantity of plastic.

3. Shop Smart

The points earned can be used just like money — but in a more sustainable way. Residents can redeem their points to "purchase" daily necessities such as rice, cooking oil, soap, or other basic household items available at the Warung Sembako. This makes essential goods more accessible, especially for families in need, while promoting responsible waste management.

This initiative reflects our ongoing efforts to ensure our coastal farmers have more resilience and sustainable sources of income. Since mangrove planting activities shift with natural cycles, we believe it's essential to create additional income channels. Community-based businesses like the Warung Sembako provide an opportunity for locals to clean up their environment while also enabling farmers to earn supplemental income. Through the Warung Sembako, the payment system allows people, especially low-income families, to access basic necessities. At the same time, community-based businesses like this help clean up the environment while giving farmers a chance to earn additional income to support their daily needs.

Alhamdulillah, with support from the BSP Program, we’ve had the chance to restart our grocery stall. We're truly thankful. Even though we’re just getting started, we hope this effort can grow and bring benefits to our community. Let’s take care of this shop so it can continue to grow and improve. Aamiin. — Maklong, Mangrove Farmer

Looking ahead, we believe about the potential of this model to inspire wider change. As we continue to support the Warung’s progress, we are also exploring more community-driven innovations that combine environmental action, social impact, and economic empowerment. 

Partner with us in supporting community livelihoods in coastal areas carbonethics.co/partnership 🌊🌱