Reducing Hazardous and Non-Hazardous Waste: Phapros Supports Zero Waste Efforts

Waste is a byproduct of any business or activity. Generally, waste is categorized into two types: hazardous and toxic waste (B3) and non-hazardous and non-toxic waste (Non-B3). B3 waste can either directly or indirectly harm or pollute the environment or pose a risk to human health. In contrast, Non-B3 waste is a byproduct that does not exhibit the characteristics of B3 waste.

The latest regulations in Indonesia regarding B3 waste management are outlined in the Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation No. 6 of 2021 on Procedures and Requirements for Managing Hazardous and Toxic Waste. Meanwhile, the management of Non-B3 waste is governed by the Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation No. 19 of 2021 on Procedures for Managing Non-Hazardous and Non-Toxic Waste.

Various collaborative programs have been undertaken by the government to support B3 and Non-B3 waste management efforts through international agreements. Additionally, national-level promotional activities are routinely conducted to raise awareness about B3 and Non-B3 waste management. One such promotional event recently organized by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) was the Zero Waste Zero Emission (ZWZE) Festival, held from July 2-4, 2024. The agenda included the National Coordination Meeting on Waste Banks, Dialogues on Updating PSLB3 Issues, exhibitions, and coaching clinics. This event was attended by all stakeholders who play a role in achieving zero waste and zero emissions.

As an industry that generates both B3 and Non-B3 waste, PT Phapros Tbk consistently strives to implement B3 waste reduction programs and 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) programs for Non-B3 waste. PT Phapros Tbk is committed to executing these programs by forming dedicated teams, planning and budgeting the programs, reporting their implementation, and developing innovative approaches.

The waste reduction policy sets a target of reducing B3 waste generation by 4% per year, with a realization in 2023 where the absolute ratio of B3 waste reduction compared to total B3 waste generation reached 4.83%. For Non-B3 waste, the 3R target is 3% per year, with a 2023 realization where the absolute ratio of Non-B3 waste 3R programs compared to total Non-B3 waste generation reached 65.79%.

In terms of planning and budgeting, strategic plans, work plans, and annual monitoring of work plan implementation are documented to ensure that waste reduction programs are carried out according to the set plans and budgets.

Some of the B3 waste reduction programs implemented at PT Phapros Tbk include the replacement of glass syrup bottles with cipro bottles, reducing B3 packaging waste; improving the productivity of dextamine products through deduster process integration, reducing product rejection; reusing endotoxin glass and sterile tips, reducing B3 packaging waste; and replacing fluorescent lamps (TL) with LED lamps, reducing B3 lamp waste.

For Non-B3 waste, 3R programs have included the implementation of the e-CPB program, a web-based CPB system; the HRMS program, a website for accessing employee-related data; and a digital product label printing program. These programs have significantly reduced paper usage. Other initiatives include redesigning packaging and optimizing packaging dimensions to reduce material usage, as well as reducing the use of thermal paper and wypall. Reuse initiatives have involved modifying barrels into trash bins. Phapros' B3 and Non-B3 waste reduction programs not only decrease environmental impact within the company but also contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The structured efforts in reducing B3 waste and the 3R of Non-B3 waste, alongside Phapros' role in supporting government policies, represent a promising start towards running a sustainable business.