UNAIR NEWS – Escalating geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran have disrupted global supply chains and created ripple effects across multiple sectors. One notable impact is the surge in plastic prices, driven by disruptions in the supply of oil and petrochemical raw materials, the primary components used in plastic production following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
However, Dr. Rizkiy Amaliyah Barakwan, S.T., a lecturer in Environmental Engineering at the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), noted that the situation may also present an opportunity from an environmental perspective.
“Environmentally friendly packaging generally has high biodegradability and can decompose within weeks, helping reduce environmental pollution. Such materials also produce a lower carbon footprint and support the circular economy, including banana leaf farmers and recycled paper producers,” Dr. Barakwan explained.
Need for a stronger system
If managed effectively, the current phenomenon could become a starting point for broader systemic change. One potential benefit is the growing collective awareness among the public. Recently, social media has been filled with campaigns by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) promoting environmentally friendly packaging, many of which have gained widespread attention. This trend may gradually influence market behavior as consumers become more accustomed to non-plastic alternatives.
“This is important because sustainability is not driven solely by regulation but also by market demand. It can encourage innovation in packaging made from local materials rather than imported ones. In fact, rising plastic prices may open opportunities to move away from structural dependence on fossil-based materials,” Dr. Barakwan said.
Nevertheless, the situation will not automatically lead to positive outcomes without proper standards and public education on hygiene, food safety, material selection, and government policies that support environmentally friendly practices. For example, incentives could be introduced to encourage SMEs to adopt sustainable packaging.
Toward sustainable action
Dr. Barakwan added that this phenomenon could contribute to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 8, 11, 12, 14, and 15. To maximize these contributions, both consumers and business actors must receive proper education, not only about switching materials but also about responsible waste management. In addition, innovation in waste-processing systems is necessary to ensure biodegradable materials can truly return to the environment. A life-cycle thinking approach is also essential to ensure that new solutions do not create additional environmental problems.
“People should reduce plastic consumption, reuse materials when possible, and switch to more environmentally friendly alternatives. SMEs and businesses are also encouraged to adopt packaging-free options, such as offering discounts to customers who bring their own containers, implementing refill systems, and being transparent with consumers if additional costs arise due to rising material prices,” Dr. Barakwan concluded.
Author: Fauziah Kandela
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
