President Prabowo Pushes for Rapid Adoption of Micro-Scale Waste Processing Technologies
Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto has directed Higher Education, Science, and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto to expedite the implementation of micro-scale waste processing technologies developed by Indonesian universities. The directive came during a limited meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday, .
Minister Yuliarto presented several of these technologies to President Prabowo, who specifically requested an acceleration of their rollout. According to Yuliarto, the ministry will now focus on expediting the development phases, including rigorous testing, to facilitate the swift implementation of micro-scale waste processing solutions.
The initial trials are slated to take place in several villages across Indonesia within the current year. “We discussed several technologies and will make a selection soon,” Yuliarto told reporters following the meeting. “Some will also be implemented in collaboration with Danantara (sovereign wealth fund), so that waste management can operate more effectively at the micro level in villages,” he added.
The technologies under consideration utilize a range of methods, including gasification, plasma-assisted processes, and cold plasma reactors. Minister Yuliarto indicated that a thorough evaluation will be conducted to determine the most effective approach for different local contexts.
These systems are designed to handle up to 10 tons of waste per day, aligning with the average waste generation at the village level. The goal is to reduce the volume of waste transported to landfills by processing household waste directly within communities.
“He specifically requested the acceleration of several micro-scale waste processing technologies developed by various universities,” Minister Yuliarto stated, emphasizing the President’s commitment to finding localized solutions to Indonesia’s waste management challenges.
Beyond the technological advancements, the ministry will collaborate with the Ministry of Environment to ensure the environmental safety of these new waste processing methods. This collaboration aims to guarantee that the implemented technologies do not have adverse effects on the surrounding ecosystems.
The push for micro-scale waste processing complements existing national initiatives, including the ongoing waste-to-energy programs. This multi-pronged approach reflects a broader strategy to improve waste management infrastructure and promote sustainable practices throughout Indonesia. The President’s directive signals a renewed focus on leveraging university research to address pressing environmental concerns at the grassroots level.
Minister Yuliarto expressed optimism that the successful adoption of these technologies will contribute to a more sustainable and efficient waste management system, reducing reliance on traditional landfill disposal methods and fostering a cleaner environment for Indonesian communities.
