The Indonesian Plastic Recycling Association (ADUPI) and 14 plastic recycling companies held a national Focus Group Discussion at Park Hotel Cawang, Jakarta. The event presented the results of extensive research into the supply-demand and management of raw materials for the plastic recycling industry. This FGD is a preliminary step in a strategic process to gather direct input from ministries/agencies, industry players, and related associations, as well as to build cross-sector collaboration to ensure that the policies taken are in line with the actual needs of the industry and effective in managing plastic waste in Indonesia. Therefore, certainty for the industry can be increased, and the circular economy can stimulate Indonesia's green industry growth. The Assistant Deputy for Agro, Chemical, Pharmaceutical, and Textile Industry Development at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, Eripson M. H. Sinaga, emphasised that the world faces serious challenges in waste management, especially plastic waste, which pollutes the oceans every year, including in Indonesia.
The plastic recycling industry plays a significant role in the transition to a circular economy, as well as reducing waste and conserving natural resources. The Deputy Chairman of ADUPI, Justin Wiganda, explained that the plastic recycling industry contributes significantly to the national economy. Over the past decade, this sector has contributed USD 9.2 billion (0.1% of GDP per year), with USD 4.8 billion from recycled product exports, USD 4.2 billion in reserves, and IDR 2.2 trillion in green investments. It has also absorbed 7.6 million tons of plastic waste and supported millions of workers in the supply chain. In addition, Indonesia's plastic recycling industry has reduced 7.692 million tons of plastic waste and 12.8 million tons of CO₂e during the same period. This FGD study is expected to provide a solid basis for the government and businesses to take concrete steps in establishing a plastic recycling ecosystem. With the initial recommendations agreed in the FGD, it is anticipated that the plastic recycling industry will become more sustainable and the national circular economy targets will be achieved.
