Promoting a Circular Economy the Bank Mandiri Way: Plastic Bottle Deposits Can Be Converted into Digital Points

Bank Mandiri has reinforced its role as a partner of the government in its national sustainability agenda through a Reverse Vending Machine program, implemented with Plasticpay as an integrated cross-sector collaboration among finance, technology, and society. Corporate Secretary Adhika Vista stated that the program goes beyond recycling facilities; plastics deposited by the public are converted into points that can be monetised, turning each collected bottle into an active transaction with economic value while supporting the strengthening of the national green economy. ‘Over a year, the program has demonstrated that technology-based approaches and economic incentives can measurably change public behaviour,’ Adhika said. By April 2026, one machine at a single location had collected 209.53 kg of plastic, equivalent to 11,205 bottles, contributing to a carbon footprint reduction of 1,109,295 grams and saving 177 square metres of land from contamination risk. Of the participation volume, 627,486 points were distributed to recyclers as direct incentives, making the circular economy a real activity that yields value for the public. ‘From a small point, the program shows how environmental impact can be accumulated significantly through daily public participation,’ said Andhika. In this program, Bank Mandiri acts as the provider of the ecosystem and digital infrastructure, while Plasticpay operates its plastic collection and processing technology. This cross-sector collaboration model is designed to be adaptive and replicable, aligning with the spirit of Melayani Sepenuh Hati (Fully Serving) and the growth-focused acceleration agenda to strengthen the nation’s economic ecosystem. ‘The program confirms Bank Mandiri’s position as a strategic government partner, while proving that sustainability initiatives can deliver real impacts not only on the environment but also on social and economic life for society,’ Adhika said. The program aligns with four Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — SDGs 11, 12, 14, and 17 — from reducing urban environmental impact to promoting responsible consumption and production, reducing ocean pollution, and strengthening cross-sector partnerships. Through the gradually built ecosystem of services, the program pushes higher recycling rates and accelerates the adoption of environmentally friendly technology at the community level. ‘Going forward, Bank Mandiri will continue to expand the program’s implementation as part of the company’s sustainability strategy focused on sustainable excellence and expanding growth,’ said Andhika.