Julia Thio
ESG Partnership Officer - Liberty Society
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Julia's introduction

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geography from Universitas Gadjah Mada. During my college years, I was interested in urban studies (infrastructure, urban planning, and public transportation). I believed that businesses always harmed the environment and believed in the power of research. Yet, I was not satisfied with the impact it had. It was then that I began to think about how to 'change' the business system: profitably, benefitting the communities, preventing damage to the environment, and restoring it.

'Sustainability in business' became my cause. While research has its value, it is businesses that truly implement change and have a direct impact on the environment and society. And I want to make a real impact.

What brought you to sustainability?

Growing up, my family and I always relied on a car for transportation, enjoying its comfortable seats and clean interior, shielded from the blazing sun and rain. However, during my high school years, I made the decision to take public transport home. On one particularly hot and humid day in Jakarta, where even the slightest breeze was absent, I found myself emotionally affected by the weather. Walking along the street, I walked to hide in the shade of trees, escaping the harsh sun. At that moment, as the wind gently blew, I felt a sense of peace and happy!

What motivates me to do sustainability is really quite simple. However, the experience still resonates in my mind, serving as the driving force behind my desire to continue learning and assisting others in embracing sustainability.

Which sustainable actions are you in charge of or have you implemented in your organisation?
  1. We ensure that our goods, gifts, and services are carbon-saving by partnering with other companies in Indonesia to conduct reforestation efforts.
  2. We ensure the practice of carbon-saving (in mobility and food delivery) and waste management in our office.
  3. We curate sustainability activations for corporations and brands aimed at their internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that the activations align with the company's needs and values.
Which challenges did you meet and how did you overcome them?

It is quite challenging to implement sustainability practices throughout the business operations. However, I always come across stories/news that discuss the positive growth of sustainability practices in businesses. It gives me hope once again. And of course, being part of a community that shares the same concern and passion for sustainability.

What are you most proud of?

My thirst for learning and exploring sustainability initiatives to understand the best practices and various approaches.

What would be your top 3 pieces of advice to the Matcha Initiative users?
  1. Surround yourself with like-minded people in sustainability to gain inspiration and stand tall if you face difficulties implementing sustainability initiatives.
  2. Discussing sustainability with someone who knows little about our Earth's complex systems might be challenging, so be patient and engage in continuous discussions.
  3. Take full advantage of what TMI has to offer. Reach out to the practitioners here, and you will see the results.
In which field could you help The Matcha Initiative users as a buddy?
  • Kick Start Help
  • Best Practices sharing
  • Experience Sharing
Please describe how you could help The Matcha Initiative users as a buddy?
  • Open my network to enable businesses in Indonesia to be able to plan and start their sustainability initiatives
  • Share best practices for empowering communities and upcycling waste
  • Last but not least, I would be delighted to connect with you to discuss sustainability and engage in a conversation!
Julia's 3 main sustainability skills

engagement / awareness / marketing

Countries where Julia can help you

Worldwide with a focus on APAC, especially Indonesia & Singapore

Julia kindly accepts to answer your questions.

If you need additional insights, you can send her a message.