Overview

The management of plastic waste has become a significant global challenge, with an estimated 79% of all such waste ultimately ending up accumulating within the environment, largely as a result of weak waste management systems (which are often characterized by, for example, low collection and recycling rates). If this trend continues, then projections show that by 2050, as much as 12,000 megatons (Mt) of plastic waste will have already polluted the environment.[1]

In Indonesia, the results of a 2023 survey organized by the Nusantara River Affairs Research Agency (Badan Riset Urusan Sungai Nusantara – “BRUIN”) revealed that plastic waste has emerged as a major issue within 64 locations in 28 districts and cities situated across 13 Indonesian provinces. This survey recorded a total of 25,733 pieces of plastic waste, predominantly sachet packaging. In terms of ranking by product categories, food packaging comprised the largest share, followed by snack wrappers, packaging relating to household items and personal care products, and smoking-related materials.[2]