Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment stated that efforts to reduce plastic waste must be intensified, as the amount continues to rise and could eventually lead to transboundary pollution.
“This plastic waste, especially what leaks into the sea, will cause transboundary pollution. We can see that beaches in Indonesia are severely threatened by plastic waste,” the ministry’s Deputy for Pollution and Environmental Damage Control Derajat Ridho Sani stated during an online seminar for National Environment Day on Monday.
He pointed out that the impact of plastic waste is alarming, with the proportion rising from 11 percent in 2010 to 19.26 percent in 2023 nationwide.
According to data from the National Waste Management Information System (SIPSN), of the 34.2 million tons of waste reported from 317 districts and cities in 2024, 19.74 percent was plastic waste.
Plastic waste ranks as the second-largest type of waste after food waste, which accounts for 39.26 percent.
“Of the existing plastic waste, only seven percent is recycled, so most of it ends up polluting the environment. If we do not handle this issue seriously, the amount of plastic waste that will threaten the environment could reach 50 percent of the existing waste,” Sani explained.
Related news: Ministry records 41.68 percent drop in plastic waste leaks into ocean
Globally, plastic waste that ends up in the sea can also continue to increase if steps are not taken to prevent and reduce waste generation.
According to United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) data, an estimated 9-14 million tons of plastic waste ended up in the ocean in 2020, which could increase to 23-37 million tons in 2040 and 155-265 million tons by 2060.
To that end, preventive measures to reduce plastic waste are ongoing.
In this context, the Indonesian Ministry of Environment continues to encourage producers of single-use plastic products to take responsibility for collecting their waste and to stop importing plastic waste for recycling raw materials.
It also supports local governments that are working to limit the use of single-use plastics, including banning plastic bags in several regions of Indonesia.
Related news: Indonesia, UAE team up to combat river plastic pollution
Translator: Prisca Triferna Violleta, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © between 2025
Indonesia’s Plastic Waste Crisis: Is Transboundary Pollution Inevitable? A Conversation with Dr. Aris Nugroho
Keywords: Plastic waste, Indonesia, transboundary pollution, recycling, waste management, single-use plastics, environmental policy, ocean pollution.
Time.news: Dr. Nugroho, thank you for joining us today. The headlines out of Indonesia are alarming regarding plastic waste. This article from ANTARA news highlights a concerning rise, suggesting it coudl lead too transboundary pollution. What’s your take on this?
Dr. Nugroho: Thank you for having me. The situation in Indonesia is, unfortunately, quite serious. The data presented in this article reflects a trend we’ve been observing for years. The increase in plastic waste from 11% in 2010 to over 19% in 2023 is a clear indicator that current efforts are insufficient. And the risk of transboundary pollution is very real. Plastic in the ocean doesn’t respect borders, it affects everyone.
Time.news: The article mentions that plastic is the second-largest waste type after food,accounting for almost 20% of total waste. What makes plastic waste such a persistent problem?
Dr. nugroho: Several factors are at play. Firstly, plastic is incredibly durable and doesn’t readily biodegrade. Secondly, the ease and affordability of plastic production have led to its ubiquitous use, particularly in single-use applications. and perhaps most critically, our waste management infrastructure and recycling rates haven’t kept pace with the rising consumption.The article points out that only 7% of plastic waste is recycled in Indonesia. That’s simply unacceptable.
Time.news: That low recycling rate is striking. What are the main barriers to improving plastic recycling in Indonesia?
Dr.Nugroho: A major issue is the lack of comprehensive collection and sorting systems. Without proper segregation at the source – meaning homes and businesses – contamination becomes a huge problem. Contaminated plastics are much harder, and frequently enough unfeasible, to recycle.Furthermore, investment in recycling technology and infrastructure is needed to process a wider range of plastic types and improve efficiency. Informal waste pickers play a vital role, but they need to be integrated into a formal, supportive system.
Time.news: Deputy Minister Sani emphasizes the need for producers to take responsibility for their plastic waste and stop importing it for recycling. how effective can Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes be in addressing this challenge?
Dr. Nugroho: EPR is crucial. It shifts the burden of waste management from municipalities to producers, incentivizing them to design more recyclable products and invest in collection and recycling infrastructure. The success of EPR hinges on strong regulations,clear targets,and robust enforcement. Simply asking producers to take responsibility isn’t enough; there needs to be a legal framework to ensure accountability. Restricting plastic waste imports intended for “recycling” is also critical,to prevent Indonesia from becoming a dumping ground for othre nations’ waste,which too often ends up mismanaged and polluting the surroundings.
time.news: The article highlights the UN’s prediction that ocean plastic pollution could reach staggering levels by 2060 if no action is taken. What are the most concerning consequences of this escalating ocean pollution?
Dr.Nugroho: The consequences are multifaceted and far-reaching. Marine life is severely impacted through entanglement, ingestion of microplastics, and habitat degradation. The contamination of the food chain with microplastics poses a potential threat to human health. Economically, fisheries and tourism suffer. We must remember that the ocean is a critical resource for Indonesia, providing livelihoods and regulating climate. Ignoring this issue will have devastating long-term consequences.
Time.news: The Indonesian government is supporting regional bans on single-use plastics. Do you believe this is an effective strategy?
Dr. Nugroho: Absolutely. Bans on single-use plastics are a critical frist step in reducing overall consumption and waste generation. They send a strong signal to consumers and businesses, encouraging them to adopt more sustainable alternatives. However, it’s vital that these bans are accompanied by education campaigns to raise awareness and provide viable alternatives, such as reusable bags and containers.The focus shouldn’t just be on restrictions, but on promoting sustainable choices.
Time.news: What practical advice do you have for our readers, both in Indonesia and globally, who want to reduce their contribution to the plastic waste problem?
Dr. Nugroho: There are many things individuals can do! Firstly, reduce your consumption of single-use plastics. Choose reusable alternatives whenever possible – water bottles, shopping bags, coffee cups, food containers.Support businesses that are actively reducing their plastic footprint. Secondly, recycle properly. Learn the recycling guidelines in your area and make sure to sort your waste correctly. Thirdly, advocate for change. Support policies that promote waste reduction and recycling. Educate yourself and others about the plastic waste crisis and its impacts. Every small action makes a difference. consider participating in community clean-up initiatives to remove plastic waste from beaches, rivers, and public spaces.
Time.news: Dr. Nugroho, thank you for your time and insights. This is clearly a complex issue, but your expertise has shed light on the challenges and potential solutions.
Dr. Nugroho: My pleasure. It’s a conversation we all need to keep having. The future depends on it.
