ITS & UNAIR Lead ASEAN BCG Network Meeting 2025

Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) continues to assert its leadership in sustainable research and innovation by hosting the prestigious ASEAN Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy Network Meeting & Conference 2025 on 14 June 2025, in collaboration with Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR). This forum positions ITS and UNAIR at the center of ASEAN’s efforts to integrate bio, circular, and green economy principles into regional research strategies.

The event brought together delegates from 8 (eight) ASEAN member states along with Japan as a dialogue partner. The representatives, drawn from universities and research institutions, were introduced to several of ITS’ flagship initiatives in sustainable technology and innovation. 

One of the highlights was a visit to the Renewable Energy Integration Demonstrator of Indonesia (REIDI), a pioneering ITS and Nanyang Technological University (NUS) project integrating solar panels, biomass, and rooftop agriculture to generate 300 kWh of independent, renewable electricity. “REIDI reflects ITS’ readiness to contribute to ASEAN’s energy transition through a self-sustained, research-based innovation platform,” explained Dr. Dedet Candra Riawan, REIDI’s Operational Coordinator. 

Further showcasing its research strength, ITS presented its collaboration with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore on Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae research. Conducted at ITS’ Environmental Engineering Laboratory, the project supports circular waste management by converting organic waste into high-value biomass for fertilizers, animal feed, and bioplastics. Prof. I Dewa Ayu Agung Warmadewanthi, Head of the ITS Sustainable Infrastructure and Environment Research Center, emphasized the potential of this research to address regional waste challenges through scalable, nature-based solutions. 

The event also highlighted ITS’ academic innovation through its Biotechnology Study Program, which now offers a curriculum focused on green biotechnology. According to Dr. Triono Bagus Saputro, Head of the Program, students will be trained in cutting-edge research such as plant metabolite extraction, nanoparticle production, and microalgae-based protein development. 

Prof. Ketut Eddy Purnama, Chairperson of the BCG Forum and Head of ITS Center for AI and Digital Technology, closed the forum with a clear vision: “We envision ITS as a collaborative hub for ASEAN in shaping a resilient future. Ecologically, economically, and socially.” 

Through this event, ITS reinforces its position as a regional leader in sustainability-focused higher education and research, building networks that transcend borders to realize a greener, more innovative ASEAN.