Ministry’s Call to Action: Enhancing Waste Sorting Awareness
In a bid to combat the escalating issue of waste in the country, Novrizal Tahar, the director of waste management at the Environment Ministry, emphasized the critical need to boost collective awareness on waste sorting. This call to action was made during an interview with ANTARA in Jakarta on Wednesday.
The Waste-Conscious Lifestyle Movement
Tahar shed light on the importance of waste sorting as an integral part of the Waste-Conscious Lifestyle Movement spearheaded by the ministry. By sorting organic and inorganic waste at home, individuals can significantly reduce the volume of waste destined for landfills. Moreover, this practice contributes to a circular economy by providing a sustainable source of clean recycled raw materials.
Building Awareness Through Education and Campaigns
The ministry has taken proactive steps to promote waste sorting by issuing a circular to various governmental bodies and regional leaders. The circular emphasizes the necessity of launching extensive campaigns and disseminating information on waste sorting. This outreach effort is designed to educate the public both formally through structured public education programs and informally.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Waste Management
Tahar underscored the importance of collaborative efforts from all sectors, including local governments, to effectively tackle the waste issue. Notably, food waste comprises a significant portion of the total waste generated in the country, accounting for 39.62 percent of the 40.1 million tons of waste produced in 2023. Plastic waste has also emerged as a pressing concern, with its share increasing from 10-11 percent in 2000 to 19.15 percent in 2023. This surge is attributed to population growth and the widespread use of single-use plastic products.
As you reflect on Tahar’s message, consider the impact of waste sorting on your daily life. How can you contribute to a sustainable future by adopting a Waste-Conscious Lifestyle? Remember, every small action counts towards creating a cleaner, greener environment for generations to come. Let’s join hands in this collective effort to build a more sustainable world.