We recently visited our customers Binasawit Makmur (BSM), a subsidiary of Sampoerna Agro, in Sumatra. Meeting our customers, seeing their practices, understanding their needs, and getting their feedback enables PBS International to continuously improve our products. One of our goals, from this visit, was to understand how our pollination control bags can be reused, repurposed, and recycled.
One fascinating outcome of our visit to BSM’s plantation was the ingenuity they demonstrated in their waste management practices. They have created multiple ways of not only repurposing our pollination control products but also the pallets they are delivered in!
Waste Management at BSM
BSM is setting a high standard in waste management through its innovative reuse and recycling initiatives. By creatively repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded, BSM reduces waste and fosters a culture of sustainability within its organization.
Repurposing Used Pollination Bags
For instance, BSM reuses used pollination bags which would typically be thrown away. These bags are now repurposed as parasols for seating areas, ground covers for seed sorting, and tool bags for the plantation staff. This clever reuse cuts down on waste and provides functional tools and accessories that support daily operations.
Pallets and Boxes for Shelter Structures
Another of BSM’s eyecatching practices is how they transform the containers that the pollination control bags are delivered in. The wooden pallets and crates have been ingeniously reused to create roofs, benches, and other pieces of furniture. This initiative minimises waste and provides practical and cost-effective solutions for building needs.
Used Fruit Bunches as Mulch
Innovation in waste management extends to all areas of BSM’s operations. Empty fruit bunches post-harvest are collected and placed around the base of the growing Palms which helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil with organic matter. This practice not only reduces waste but also reduces the need for fertilizers.
Community Impact and Environmental Stewardship
We were impressed by the reuse and recycling initiatives we saw at BSM. They are actively seeking to reduce their environmental impact by finding new uses for materials that would otherwise contribute to waste. These efforts also foster a sense of community within the business that benefits from the practical applications of these repurposed materials.
As one member of the team put it “At BSM, we are proud of our waste reduction initiatives. By recycling and reusing materials, we have not only helped minimise our environmental impact but created new resources for our colleagues. By repurposing materials creatively, we can provide practical solutions and create a culture of sustainability in our operations.’’
BSM’s innovative approach to waste reduction through reuse and recycling is an inspiring example of how businesses can effectively reduce their environmental impact. By thinking creatively and valuing every resource, BSM is leading by example and setting a benchmark for others to follow.
For further information on Binasawit Makmur (BSM) visit https://binasawitmakmur.