Komodo Water Goes Global at ICONIC 2024!

Komodo Water was honored to be featured at ICONIC 2024 in Göttingen, Germany, where we presented a case study titled “Harnessing Low-Carbon Technologies for Sustainable Development in Indonesia.” This recognition marks a major milestone as we shared our solar-powered water solutions with a global audience committed to sustainable development.

ICONIC 2024, held from September 4–6 at Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, is the International Conference of Integrated Intellectual Community. Organized by PPI Jerman and ECADIN, this year’s theme was “Transformation for Low-Carbon Development,” aligned with Indonesia’s target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. The conference served as a global platform for exchanging innovative strategies, featuring thought leaders, policymakers, academics, and practitioners focused on low-carbon solutions.

The event opened with key remarks from Agnia Dewi Larasati (President of PPI Jerman), Arif Havas Oegroseno (Indonesian Ambassador to Germany, now Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia), Prof. Bernhard Brümmer (Vice President for Research and Sustainability at the University of Göttingen), Dr. Desti Alkano (CEO of Energy Academy Indonesia), and Sekar Yunita (Director of ICONIC 2024). The Ministerial Talk featured Laksmi Dhewanthi (Director General of Climate Change at Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry), Dr. David Tantow (Deputy Head for Southeast Asia at Germany’s Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development), and Arif Havas Oegroseno. These high-level sessions laid the groundwork for meaningful discussions on climate resilience and equitable development in the Global South.

Who brought Komodo Water’s story to the stage?

Komodo Water’s story was presented during the scientific session on technological innovation chaired by Tyas Putri Sativa (M.Sc in Environmental Engineering). Salma Sulthanah represented Komodo Water in person in Göttingen, while Shana Fatina joined virtually from Indonesia. Together, they shared how we are transforming access to clean water in Eastern Indonesia through solar-powered technologies. The case study focused on our solar-powered reverse osmosis systems and ice-making machines, which not only address water scarcity in coastal and island communities but also support local economic resilience—particularly among women and small-scale fishers.

The presentation received warm appreciation from participants and organizers. Hessel Juliust, one of the conference organizers, noted that Komodo Water plays a crucial role in Indonesia’s low-carbon development strategy. Tyas Putri Sativa commended the impact of our work and expressed optimism that similar initiatives could be adopted across other regions in Indonesia. Viola Parma, a student from Bonn University, praised Komodo Water as “a wonderful initiative that empowers local communities without putting additional strain on the environment,” particularly in high-tourism areas.

How has Komodo Water impacted local communities?

Since its founding in 2010, Komodo Water has expanded access to clean water in remote communities across East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Through the use of solar-powered water pumps and the provision of water products, the initiative has empowered local communities, particularly women, by creating new livelihood opportunities and enhancing overall well-being. Its solutions include solar-powered reverse osmosis systems for drinking water and a solar-powered ice block machine.

To date, Komodo Water has reached over 10,000 people, generated local employment, and produced more than 120,000 gallons of clean drinking water and 65.2 tons of ice. It has also advanced resource efficiency by saving 53,009 kWh of energy, 572,144 liters of water, and cutting 40 tons of fossil fuel consumption annually. For local fishermen, the availability of ice has extended the shelf life of their catch by 16%, reduced fuel consumption, and supported more sustainable fishing practices.

Where can you find our work in ICONIC 2024?

Our work is featured in the official ICONIC 2024 publication, Book of Abstracts and Policy Briefs: Transformation for Low-Carbon Development, published by Cuvillier Verlag. The publication can be accessed at cuvillier.de, and our presentation poster is available at bit.ly/komodowateraticonic2024.

At Komodo Water, we remain committed to driving sustainable change through renewable technologies and inclusive innovation. Being featured at ICONIC 2024 affirms our belief that local solutions can contribute meaningfully to global climate goals.