MSC Indonesia Cultivates a Greener and More Equitable Future Through Mangrove Conservation and Educational Support

A leading container shipping company, MSC, is committed to fostering sustainable and inclusive development for individuals, communities, and the environment. In exemplifying this dedication, MSC Indonesia has made significant strides through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, including mangrove conservation and provision of essential school supplies to the Tanjung Pasir community.

Located in Tangerang city, the Banten province of Indonesia, Tanjung Pasir offers a unique blend of environmental and social impact opportunities.

Indonesia’s Mangroves Among the Most Carbon-rich Forests in the World

Mangroves are vital ecosystems that provide numerous environmental benefits, including protection against coastal erosion, support for marine biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. Indonesia, home to the world’s largest and most carbon-rich mangrove forests, plays a crucial role in climate change mitigation. However, the archipelago faces the fastest rate of mangrove destruction globally, with 40% of its mangroves lost over the last thirty years1.

A coastal area, Tanjung Pasir is particularly vulnerable to this erosion.

Seeding a Greener Future: Mangroves Planting to Combat Climate Change

To address this issue, MSC Indonesia joined forces with SeaSoldier Prajurit Laut Foundation, a local non-profit organization, to plant 500 mangrove seedlings at Tanjung Pasir beach. On 5 October 2024, 30 MSC Indonesia employee volunteers also joined the planting activity. According to SeaSoldier, the initiative is expected to absorb approximately 6.15 metric tons of carbon annually: equivalent to neutralizing the emissions of 10 fossil fuel-powered cars over 25 years.

Besides restoring critical ecosystems, this initiative protects the rich biodiversity of Tanjung Pasir by providing an improved habitat for marine and terrestrial species, including fish, shrimps and birds. The mangroves will also preserve the homes of the local coastal community, bolstering resilience to climate change. To further engage the local community in these conservation efforts, MSC Indonesia contributed an inflatable boat, providing easier access to coastal areas.

Nadine Chandrawinata, Founder and Executive Director of SeaSoldier, remarked, “We’re excited to partner with MSC Indonesia on this initiative, driving positive changes and cultivating a greener future.”

Empowering Future Generations: Supporting Education for Disadvantaged Youths

Additionally, MSC Indonesia donated essential school supplies to Community Learning Center PKBM Rumah Pintar, benefitting 135 students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Recognizing the need for improved educational resources, the company aims to foster a conducive learning environment. By providing these learning resources, MSC Indonesia offers valuable opportunities for children to continue their education and obtain crucial qualifications necessary for securing formal employment, helping them to break out of poverty cycle. The donated items include laptops, printers, projectors, whiteboards, chairs, educational posters.

Commitment to Indonesian Businesses, Communities and Sustainability

Jeremy Franc, Managing Director of MSC Indonesia, said, “MSC’s commitment to the Indonesian community extends beyond connecting local businesses with the world. By caring for both people and the planet, we strive to restore nature and empower communities in Indonesia, creating a greener and more equitable future that will benefit generations to come.”

MSC has been operating in Indonesia since 1996. Today, it is powered by 223 staff dedicated to servicing the needs of customers through five offices across the country: Jakarta, Surabaya, Semarang, Belawan and Panjang. To further extend its business coverage, MSC is also represented by sub-agents in Palembang, Padang, Perawang, Batam, Makassar, and Pontianak.

Find out more about MSC Indonesia here.