The use of plastic food packaging is rapidly increasing in Indonesia. During the pandemic, home deliveries have gone up and so has the amount of plastic packages that end up as non-recyclable waste in the environment. Plépah tackles this problem while at the same time supporting farmers and local communities. By selling their biodegradable packages made from agricultural materials it gives them a sustainable income.  

Inspired by a passion for design and a commitment to promoting the circular economy in Indonesia, Plépah creates innovative, eco-friendly packaging. Giving agricultural waste such as Areca palm leaf sheath a second life, the social enterprise works with local producers to design carbon neutral and biodegradable packages for foods and cosmetics.  

The Plépah founders put emphasis on design, innovation and community empowerment because they believe these values are the key in creating sustainable, democratic and circular solutions.  

Women are empowered by providing a workplace with flexible working hours. Youth from local areas who are interested in innovative design are offered learning and job opportunities. To date, Plepah has succeeded in giving around 1,000 smallholder farmer families and unskilled worker households a new source of income as material collectors and packaging producers. 

This way, the social enterprise reduces excessive post-consumer waste while bringing much-needed economic stability to local communities. At the same time, it develops the villagers’ business management skills and increases their awareness about protecting the environment.