Youth‑led project piloting a blue circular manufacturing hub that transforms seaweed from smallholder farmers into semi‑refined carrageenan (SRC) and mycelium‑based biopolymer materials. Over 18 months, youth teams in Bontang and Bandung will install and operate lean SRC and biopolymer pilot lines, train at least 20 young people in processing and quality control, and co‑develop prototypes with early buyers. The innovative element is combining port‑anchored SRC production with bio‑based material design to replace plastics while creating green jobs and new income for coastal communities.
What made you want to be engaged in the fight against climate change?
Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it already affects our food systems, ecosystems, and communities. As a biotechnology professional, I believe science and innovation can deliver practical climate solutions. My work includes developing mushroom- and seaweed-based biomaterials as alternatives to plastics, researching fungal bioremediation through transcriptomics, studying microbial genomics for ecosystem restoration, and promoting environmental awareness through education. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to turning scientific innovation into sustainable solutions for both people and the planet.
What motivates/inspires you?
I am inspired by the power of innovation to transform environmental challenges into sustainable solutions. Nature offers countless lessons, and biotechnology helps us apply them to real-world problems. My experiences developing mushroom- and seaweed-based biomaterials, conducting bioinformatics research on bioremediation, mentoring students, and collaborating with researchers, artists, and local communities have shown me that meaningful impact is built through collaboration. Young people’s curiosity and willingness to learn motivate me to keep innovating. Every project I undertake is driven by the hope of creating practical solutions and leaving a healthier, more sustainable planet for future generations.
What advice do you have for the youth that want to be involved with climate action?
Don’t wait until you feel like an expert—start with the skills and resources you have today. Climate action needs everyone, from researchers and engineers to entrepreneurs, educators, designers, and communicators. Stay curious, keep learning, and embrace failure as part of growth. Great innovations often begin as small ideas strengthened through persistence and collaboration. Seek mentors, build interdisciplinary networks, and create solutions that are scientifically sound, socially inclusive, and economically sustainable. Climate change is a global challenge, but lasting impact begins with local action and the courage to take the first step.
Which type of organisation would be most valuable for you to connect with during the event and why?
Universities and research centres, followed closely by mission‑driven private sector partners, would be most valuable. For this project, we need strong scientific and technical allies to rigorously test SRC and seaweed‑based biopolymers, refine our processes, and co‑develop applications that can genuinely replace plastics rather than becoming another niche material. Universities and research centres can offer lab capacity, joint research, and talent pipelines for youth scientists and engineers. At the same time, connecting with climate‑committed companies can turn prototypes into real purchase orders and pilots at scale. This combination of rigorous R&D and market‑driven partners is essential to prove that blue circular manufacturing can be both technically sound and commercially viable.
Are there any topics you would especially like to speak about?
Biomaterial, Bioremediation.
What is the most interesting story behind your project that you think people should hear?
Situated along the equator, Bontang receives abundant and consistent sunlight throughout the year. This optimal solar exposure maximizes the photosynthesis process of the seaweed (Eucheuma cottonii / Kappaphycus alvarezii). The result is faster growth, brighter coloration, and a higher density and quality of carrageenan—a natural thickening agent that will serve as the primary raw material for our seaweed-based biomaterial project.
Its equatorial location ensures that seawater temperatures in Bontang remain consistently warm and stable, free from the extreme seasonal fluctuations found in non-tropical regions. Seaweed is highly sensitive to sudden temperature changes, which can trigger “ice-ice” disease (causing the stalks to turn white and decay). This equatorial temperature stability results in healthier, less stressed seaweed with a stronger fibrous texture.