Banten Governor Asks For Central Support In Overcoming The Waste Crisis

SERANG - The Governor of Banten, Andra Soni, openly asked for support from the central government, especially the Ministry of Environment (KLH) to help overcome the waste problem which is considered already in a crisis condition in his region.

The request was delivered directly at the Commemoration of Clean-up Day throughout the World Clean-up Day Indonesia, which was centered in Teluk Terate Village, Kramatwatu District, Serang Regency, Banten, Saturday.

"Therefore, on this occasion, the Banten Provincial Government hopes to get guidance, guidance, and assistance from the Ministry of Environment," said Andra Soni.

The expected support, he continued, is comprehensive, ranging from the construction of integrated waste management sites (TPST), the provision of equipment, funding, to technical assistance and integration of the 3R program (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) into the circular economy scheme.

This request for assistance is based on data on waste management which is still far from ideal. Andra revealed that of the approximately 8,126 tons of waste produced by Banten every day, only 13.4 percent or 1,092 tons were able to be managed properly.

"While more than half of it, around 3,771 tons are still being stockpiled using the open dumping method, and 3,263 tons are wasted directly into the environment through illegal arson or disposal," he explained.

While expecting central support, Andra has also instructed the Environmental Service at the district/city level to start promoting waste sorting education programs to the public and encourage the development of more environmentally friendly TPA.

He hopes that the synergy between the central government, regional and all stakeholders can accelerate waste management in order to achieve the target of Indonesia's Clean 2029.