Plastic Waste Emergency in Sidoarjo Rivers, Environmental Agency Urges 3R Action

The Sidoarjo Environmental and Hygiene Agency (DLHK) has expressed deep concern over the persistent piles of plastic waste polluting rivers in the region, particularly in the Putat Village area of Tanggulangin District. Despite regular clean-up efforts, the waterways remain clogged with plastic packaging, bottles, styrofoam, and household refuse, posing a serious threat to the environment and public health. The agency warns that the accumulation of rubbish not only spoils the landscape but also significantly increases the risk of flooding during heavy rains and contaminates groundwater sources.

Indah Yuliati, an environmental extension officer at DLHK Sidoarjo, lamented that many residents continue to take the shortcut of dumping waste directly into rivers. She stressed that the problem will never be resolved without a fundamental shift in daily waste management behaviour. Indah urged the public to implement the 3R principles—reduce, reuse, and recycle—starting at home. She noted that much of the discarded material still holds value if properly sorted, with organic waste being convertible into compost and inorganic waste into creative, economically valuable products.

Citing examples from the DLHK waste bank, Indah highlighted how plastic bottle caps can be assembled into shopping bags or decorative flower pots, while plastic packaging and coffee sachets can be turned into ecobricks or crocheted bags. Even used gallons can be repurposed into ornaments or plant containers, eliminating the need for new purchases. She emphasised that waste should no longer be seen as mere rubbish but as a resource that can add value to the community and help save the environment.

The agency also issued a stern warning against burning plastic waste, a common but hazardous practice. Indah explained that burning plastic releases dioxins, a toxic gas that severely harms human health and the environment. DLHK Sidoarjo continues to campaign for the 3R approach, insisting that waste reduction through household sorting, creative recycling, and collective behavioural change is the key to keeping Sidoarjo’s rivers clean, healthy, and free from flooding.