BRIN promotes pyrolysis technology for low-value plastic waste management

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is promoting the use of pyrolysis technology as an innovative solution for managing low-value plastic waste while supporting the formulation of evidence-based policies for a sustainable waste management system. Researcher Heru Susanto from the Centre for Sustainable Industry and Manufacturing Systems Research stated that Indonesia generated approximately 38 million tonnes of waste in 2024, with 19 to 20 percent consisting of low-value plastics such as plastic bags, food packaging, and styrofoam, which are difficult to recycle through conventional methods. He noted that pyrolysis technology can convert low-value plastic waste into economically valuable fuel. The technology has an 87 percent technical feasibility index and a payback period of around 2.4 years. Furthermore, tests indicate that emissions from the process remain below environmental quality standards. Based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), emissions from pyrolysis technology reach approximately 315 kg CO₂ equivalent per ton, significantly lower than open dumping, open burning, or conventional incineration methods. Through this research, BRIN hopes the technology can be implemented and replicated across various regions to support Indonesia’s goal of becoming waste-free. This effort follows President Prabowo Subianto’s directive for all levels of government to consistently carry out waste management and environmental clean-up as concrete steps towards sustainable waste handling across Indonesia.