Countries in Southeast Asia collaborate to reduce the use of single-use plastics

Project description

Title: The Collaborative Actions for Single-Use Plastic Prevention in Southeast Asia (CAP SEA)
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV)
Country: Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia​​​​​​​
Lead executing agency: Indonesia: The Coordinating Ministry of Marine Affairs and Investment (CMMAI)​​​​​​​
Overall term: 2020 to 2023

Single Use plastic products end up as waste after a short use with disastrous consequences for marine and terrestrial ecosystems Copyright: GIZ Indonesia/Nafisa Meisa Iskandar

Context

Existing production and consumption patterns in Southeast Asian countries are mostly based on a linear raw materials economy in which plastic materials are poorly managed. They are generally disposed of as waste after a short period of use. The widespread use of single-use plastic (SUP) contributes significantly to the pollution of waterways and the sea. Low raw material prices, counterproductive systems, insufficient awareness and a lack of alternatives are the main reasons for the rapidly growing amount of disposable plastic.

In response to this, Indonesian policy makers have recognised that the introduction of circular economy principles in production and trade along the waste hierarchy (i.e., reduce, reuse, recycle) can be an essential solution. The project therefore responds to Indonesia’s National Action Plan on Marine Plastic Debris (2017-2025).

Objective

Single-use plastic waste is being reduced in Southeast Asia to prevent waste from causing plastic pollution.

Approach

The project’s main areas of activity are:

  • Institutional Framework: Advising and supporting local partners in developing circular economy, regulatory framework and strategies as well as recycling markets. Providing advice on product-related environmental protection, such as guidelines or standards.
  • New Business Solutions: Providing support to local and international partners to develop innovative and environmentally sound business models to prevent SUP and prepare for reuse.
  • Pilot Projects: Designing and implementing pilot project in Jakarta City, Indonesia to reduce SUP.
  • Knowledge Management: Analysing and compiling lessons learned and disseminating best practices to relevant institutions through pre-studies and knowledge-sharing events.

Last update: October 2022

Additional information