Indonesia pushes reuse to combat take-out container waste

Country generates 7.8 million metric tons of plastic waste annually, about 1.3 million ending up in sea  

JAKARTA, Indonesia (MNTV) – Following the end of Ramadan, Jakarta’s streets are once again abuzz with vendors serving bubur ayam (chicken porridge), often in reusable ceramic bowls.

This everyday practice illustrates the potential for Indonesia to embrace “reuse” — the least utilized component of the “reduce-reuse-recycle” mantra, says Tiza Mafira, director of the Indonesia Plastic Bag Diet Movement.  

Her organization is collaborating with the Ministry of Environment to create a national “reuse road map” to tackle the country’s plastic crisis.

With 7.8 million metric tons of plastic waste generated annually — nearly 1.3 million ending up in the ocean — Indonesia is among the top contributors to marine plastic pollution. 

While recycling has dominated waste strategies, experts argue that reuse offers more sustainable, upstream solutions.

The proposed road map promotes refill and return systems, supported by infrastructure like reuse hubs and cleaning facilities. Advocates believe reuse can spur economic growth, cut emissions, and drive Indonesia toward a circular economy.