Plastic waste is often seen as a problem, but in the hands of students at St. Michael Catholic Vocational School in Surakarta, it can become an opportunity. With a passion for learning and creativity, the students have incorporated recycling into their daily lessons. This is a tangible manifestation of their commitment to caring for the earth for a more sustainable future.
Weaving Knowledge into Hope for the Earth
From August 11-14, 2025, tenth-grade students at St. Mikael Vocational School participated in a lesson on the Circular Economy to learn about recycling and environmental issues. The PT ATMI IGI Recycling team explained recycling, its effects, and how to continue these practices. Students engaged actively in discussions and received key chains made from recycled bottle caps featuring their school logo as a reminder of the lesson.
Teacher Ms. Yanti asked students to collect bottle caps for two weeks. They brought in large quantities, totalling 16 kg across seven classes, highlighting the problem of plastic waste. The school collaborates with PT ATMI IGI on recycling education and has two machines for hands-on practice, allowing students to create keychains, jewellery beads, rosaries, and more.
Ignatian Spirituality to Care for the Earth
Plastic recycling activities at St. Mikael Vocational School teach students the 4C values. Competence teaches mould-making techniques based on creativity. Compassion raises awareness of protecting the Earth from waste. Conscience helps students distinguish between good and bad behaviour towards the environment. Commitment is caring for nature. This activity also supports the Universal Apostolic Preferences and Sustainable Development Goals, especially in quality education and climate change action. It is hoped that this activity will be sustainable and benefit the school. Students learn about the Circular Economy and demonstrate that small steps at school can create a greener and more sustainable future.
Contributor: Fransiskus Marcelino Utama – Student of SMK Katolik St. Mikael Surakarta
