Women in East Java are stepping into roles they may never have imagined—organizing, innovating, and collaborating to revive the river and protect their livelihoods. They’re not just cleaning a river; they’re reshaping what’s possible for their communities.

It is part of AKSI Brantas, a collaborative effort uniting Indonesian and Dutch organizations to protect and restore the river. By combining local knowledge with international expertise, the initiative has made significant progress in restoring ecosystems and empowering grassroots communities to take charge of the Brantas River Basin.

The Brantas river’s challenges

For years, the Brantas River has been both a lifeline and a quiet witness to its community’s struggles. Its waters are choked with plastic waste, its banks stripped bare by deforestation, and pollution casts a shadow over its future. Yet, amidst these challenges, something remarkable is happening.

A movement led by women

More than 450 women have stepped into leadership roles, taking action on waste reduction, river restoration, and sustainable livelihoods. Their efforts are already reshaping their communities.

In areas like Gresik, community-led refill stores, targeted waste collection, and awareness campaigns have significantly cut plastic waste, supported by new regulations on single-use plastics. Along the riverbanks, projects like the Green Belt Moringa Park are restoring nature—creating thriving spaces for biodiversity while providing food, shade, and economic opportunities for local families.

Inspiring stories of change

Explore the stories of these women’s groups and witness the quiet transformations they’ve initiated, along with the challenges they continue to face as they protect the Brantas for generations to come. Learn more about our strategies for empowering women and communities to safeguard their river and livelihoods.

Download our full report here: