When an environmental engineering graduate decided to address sustainability issues not only from a technical perspective but also through a socio-political approach at the regional level, she became a figure who inspires the younger generation to view sustainability in a broader and more equitable way. That is the story of Ellen Putri Edita.
Early Life & Education
Ellen began her academic journey as an Environmental Engineering student at Diponegoro University. Her interest in social and environmental issues led her to pursue a master’s degree at Lund University in Sweden, where she enrolled in the Environmental Studies & Sustainability Science program.
There, he delved into issues ranging from environmental justice and resource management to social transformation in development.
His commitment to critical research is evident in his publications and studies on the socioeconomic transformation resulting from the construction of a new airport in Yogyakarta—which were ultimately included in an academic book published by Routledge.
Professional Career & Social Contributions
Upon returning to Indonesia, Ellen chose to dedicate her expertise to the Southeast Asian region. She joined ERIA—the Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris—as a Research Associate, supporting the development of policies to reduce marine plastic waste in the region.
Her role includes policy research, collaboration with ASEAN governments, and building public capacity on issues related to the circular economy and plastic pollution.
Currently, Ellen serves as a Project Officer at the ASEAN Secretariat within the Southeast Asia Regional Programme on Combating Marine Plastics (SEA-MaP)—overseeing the regional agenda to curb marine plastic pollution and strengthen sustainability frameworks in Southeast Asia.
Ellen has also garnered international attention, notably through her participation in Sweden Demo Day 2019 in Stockholm, where she introduced tempeh as a culinary innovation. The event was covered by Kompas.com, highlighting visitors’ enthusiasm for the fried tempeh served.
A visitor at Sweden Demo Day samples fried tempeh coated in flour, served by the Super Tempe team. The Indonesian student introduced tempeh as both an alternative food and a business idea at an event bringing together thousands of Swedish startups and investors in Stockholm on Thursday, April 4, 2019.
Meanwhile, Ellen is also actively sharing her knowledge through academic forums, including serving as a guest speaker at Indonesian universities to discuss environmental issues and social justice.
Achievements & Impact
Some of Ellen’s notable contributions:
- Contributor to an academic book on social transformation and environmental justice (Routledge)
- Scientific publications on Extended Producer Responsibility and plastic waste management in Asia
- Academic speaker and environmental advocate at national and international forums
- Contributor to ASEAN-level policy research on marine debris management
Through her work, Ellen demonstrates how science, policy, and social advocacy can come together to drive sustainable change.
Ellen Putri Edita served as a guest speaker at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta, as part of the Kampus Merdeka Program, sharing insights on environmental issues and her research regarding the construction of a new airport in Yogyakarta. The students’ enthusiasm made the session all the more memorable.
Philosophy & Inspiration for Students
For Ellen, sustainability is not merely a technical matter but a matter of justice, equality, and community voice.
Her journey underscores that:
- Environmental science is not just about technology but also governance, community rights, and social justice.
- Global experience is a foundation, but local contribution is a calling.
- Career paths in sustainability are vast, ranging from research and policy to social innovation.
With a focused vision and integrity in inclusive environmental advocacy, Ellen serves as a role model for the younger generation seeking to reshape development toward a more just and sustainable future.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
Moving forward, Ellen continues to work to strengthen cross-border collaboration, ensure that ASEAN’s environmental policies are more inclusive, and promote a transition toward a people-centered circular economy.
The challenges remain significant—ranging from the complexity of regional governance and capacity gaps among nations to shifts in consumption culture. Yet, through a combination of global experience, social sensitivity, and research-policy expertise, Ellen has demonstrated that systemic change begins with consistent commitment and tangible action.
Source :
https://lingkungan.ft.undip.ac.id/dari-kampus-ke-kebijakan-regional-kiprah-ellen-putri-edita-dalam-isu-keberlanjutan-dan-keadilan-lingkungan/