Jakarta (VNA) – Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment called on local governments to vigorously promote the Waste Aware Lifestyle Movement as part of the efforts to transform the waste management paradigm in the country.
Novrizal Tahar, director of waste management at the ministry, emphasised the need to raise collective awareness about sorting household waste to mitigate associated risks. The movement encourages citizens to actively sort waste to protect the environment.
He noted that separating organic and inorganic waste at home not only reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills but also supports a circular economy by providing clean, recyclable raw materials.
To ensure the programme's success, the ministry has engaged with other government ministries, agencies, and regional leaders to enhance public awareness. Furthermore, regional authorities are implementing large-scale awareness campaigns to help communities understand the risks posed by unmanaged waste.
In addition to sorting, the initiative also advocates for waste prevention measures, such as eliminating single-use packaging and reducing food waste.
According to data from Indonesia’s National Waste Management Information System (SIPSN), food waste accounted for the largest share, nearly 40% of the 40.1 million tonnes of waste generated in 2023.
Meanwhile, the share of plastic waste has risen over the past 20 years, becoming the second most prevalent type of waste after food. Plastic waste has increased from 10–11% in 2000 to 19.15% in 2023 due to population growth and the widespread use of single-use plastic products./.
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