Indonesian regions Lead the Way in Lasting Environmental Practices
Five regions in Indonesia – Banyumas, Malang city, Bandung City, Padang city, and Ciamis District – are being recognized for their important advancements in environmental management and sustainability.These areas are demonstrating innovative approaches to waste management, air and water quality, and circular economy principles, positioning them as models for other cities and regions in Southeast Asia.
Banyumas Regency is a frontrunner in integrated waste management, operating 67 active waste banks and actively implementing the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). The region currently manages 77 percent of its waste generation,utilizing technologies like TPS3R (integrated waste management facilities),maggot cultivation,and composting. These efforts, alongside environmentally friendly procurement practices, have established Banyumas as a regional learning destination for waste management.
Malang City has earned recognition for its improved air quality, receiving a certificate in the clean air category for large cities. Regular vehicle emission testing, a reforestation initiative involving the planting of 518 trees, and focused pollution reduction strategies have resulted in an Air Quality Index of 88.36, positively impacting public health, economic productivity, and education.
Bandung City is being lauded for its advancements in clean water access and sanitation, earning a certificate in the clean water category for large cities. Currently, 91.68 percent of households have access to improved drinking water, and 82.55 percent of households and industries are connected to the national wastewater system. Bandung has also pioneered the reclamation of springs, transforming them into multifunctional public spaces, which has demonstrably reduced instances of diarrhea.
Padang City is championing the circular economy, receiving a certificate of recognition for its efforts in transforming waste into valuable resources.The city leverages waste banks, maggot cultivation, and environmentally friendly procurement to produce marketable recycled products. An Integrated Waste Management Facility (TPST) wiht a 200-ton/day capacity at the Air Dingin Landfill Site produces co-firing fuel for the cement industry, with further TPSTs utilizing compost, bioconversion, and pyrolysis currently under growth.
Ciamis District has achieved significant reductions in landfill waste, earning a certificate in the Clean Land category for small cities. Waste sent to landfills has decreased from 45 truckloads per day in 2019 to just nine truckloads per day in 2024. This success is attributed to the promotion of 298 Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Waste Management Facilities (TPS3R) and waste banks, including a community-based central waste bank.Innovative community engagement programs like “Sedekah Sampah” (Trash Alms),a ban on sacrificial plastic bags,and motorcycle incentives for top recyclers have further boosted participation. The district is also exploring methane gas-to-energy projects at the Banjaranyar and Ciminyak landfills.
