Indonesian Buddhist Youth Deploy Ecoenzymes to Combat River Pollution, Marking a Milestone in Environmental Action
South Tangerang, Banten – In a significant display of environmental stewardship, the Indonesian Buddhist Youth Generation (Gemabudhi) released 10,000 liters of ecoenzyme into the Jeletreng River on Sunday, March 8, 2026, aiming to restore the river’s ecosystem following pesticide contamination. The initiative was lauded by the Ministry of Religious Affairs as a practical example of “ecotheology.”
Pesticide Contamination and the Need for Restoration
The Jeletreng River, a tributary of the Cisadane River, was polluted after a fire at a PT Biotek Saranatama warehouse in February resulted in chemical residues entering the water supply. Approximately 20 tons of pesticides, including cypermetrin and profenofos, were released during the incident , prompting concerns about the impact on the local ecosystem and water safety.
Ecoenzyme Release and its Significance
Gemabudhi’s response involved the large-scale deployment of ecoenzyme, a natural solution believed to help break down pollutants and restore water quality. The release of 10,000 liters was officially recognized by the Indonesian World Record Museum (MURI) as the largest ecoenzyme distribution into a river . This action coincided with the organization’s 40th anniversary celebration.
Ecotheology and Buddhist Principles
According to Supriyadi, Director General of Buddhist Community Guidance at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the initiative embodies the principles of ecotheology, which emphasizes the interconnectedness between humanity, and nature. Buddhist teachings stress the importance of environmental care, rooted in the understanding that human existence depends on a healthy environment. The concept of Paticcasamuppada, or interdependence, further reinforces the moral obligation to protect the environment .
Government Support and Future Efforts
The Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed hope that this movement will inspire continued community involvement in ecoenzyme production and environmental restoration efforts. The government has also taken legal action regarding the Cisadane River pollution case and is investigating other potential sources of pollution in the Brantas River.
This event highlights a growing trend of community-led environmental initiatives in Indonesia, demonstrating a commitment to addressing pollution challenges and preserving natural resources.