From Organic to Hazardous Waste: Jakarta's New Waste Management System

The Jakarta Environmental Agency (DLH) has explained the collection mechanism for sorted waste under the Mandatory Waste Sorting Movement currently being implemented across Jakarta. This programme requires the public to sort waste at the source—including households, offices, and public facilities—into four categories: organic, inorganic, residue, and B3 (Hazardous and Toxic materials).

“The implementation of this policy is being carried out gradually by maximising available infrastructure, including the regulation of collection schedules based on the types of waste sorted by the community,” stated Dudi via WhatsApp on Monday (18/5/2026).

Dudi explained that organic waste will be collected by environmental officers at the sub-district level and PPSU (Urban Community Service Corps) using motorised carts (germor) and pickups, destined for Temporary Waste Sites (TPS) or TPS 3R facilities. Meanwhile, inorganic waste with high economic value will be managed through waste banks in every neighbourhood (RW). Inorganic waste with low economic value will be directed for processing at TPS 3R or RDF (Refuse-Derived Fuel) plants.

“As for residue waste that cannot be processed via TPS 3R or RDF plants, it will be processed at landfills using a sanitary landfill system,” Dudi added.

The Jakarta Environmental Agency also ensured that the strengthening of infrastructure for sorted waste management is being conducted incrementally, covering collection, transportation, and processing stages. Furthermore, all Jakarta Environmental Sub-Agencies are continuing to conduct socialisation, education, and technical assistance for both waste collectors and the public to ensure the programme’s effectiveness.

Currently, the Jakarta Environmental Agency is also refining the operational and technical guidelines derived from Governor’s Instruction Number 5 of 2026, to ensure the Waste Sorting Movement operates in a more structured, consistent, and sustainable manner.