Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris - ERIA

The US Department of Commerce and NOAA announced $27 million in funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to prevent and remove marine debris in coastal and Great Lakes communities. This funding supports innovative research and local coalitions, combining scientific approaches with community involvement to tackle marine debris, protect ecosystems, and boost local economies. These efforts are part of a larger $3 billion investment to address climate change and enhance coastal resilience and infrastructure.

Biden-Harris administration invests $27 million to support community-driven marine debris solutions through Investing in America agenda Funding will support innovative marine debris prevention and removal

The Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), in collaboration with ERIA's Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris and with support from the Ministry of Environment of Japan, is launching Phase II of the Breaking the Plastic Habit in Asia project. This project will test the effectiveness of behavior-centered interventions to reduce the use and waste of single-use plastics in cities and communities.

In line with this goal, the Breaking the Plastic Habit in Asia project calls for implementing partners including local, regional, or national governmental institutions /agencies, companies, or not-for-profit organisations including educational or research institutes based in the ASEAN Member States to plan, implement, and monitor pilot projects in collaboration with IGES.

Proposal submission is open until 31 August 2024
Project implementation is between January - August 2025

Scan the QR code or go to bit.ly/Apply-BIPhase2 for more information.

ERIA: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia

Malaysia plans to spotlight global plastic pollution at the ASEAN Summit 2025, emphasizing the issue's regional impact and advocating for a unified ASEAN approach to draw international attention and drive comprehensive solutions. This regional cooperation aims to enhance collective efforts to address plastic pollution and is part of Malaysia's broader strategy under the 12th Malaysia Plan to promote sustainability and inclusive growth.

Asean 2025: Malaysia to raise plastics pollution issue - Nik Nazmi | New Straits Times PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia will raise the issue of plastics pollution plaguing the world when it hosts the Asean Summit 2025, said Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

A new automated materials recovery facility is built in Pampanga, Philippines, processing up to 5,000 tons of waste per day. Unlike a landfill, it sells the waste to companies that convert it into fuel. Watch a tour of the 10-hectare facility here:

How machines handle tons of trash in Porac, Pampanga Enrique Razon’s Prime Infrastructure is automating waste management in Porac, Pampanga, with the goal of eventually turning trash into fuel.https://www.rappl...

Jakarta provincial government is considering building a waste island in the Thousand Islands to address the city's growing landfill needs. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry confirmed informal discussions but noted that the concept and design are still unclear. The proposed island would accommodate residual waste and support a new disposal site, as Jakarta’s Bantargebang landfill nears capacity with 8,000 tons of waste generated daily. The waste island proposal was suggested due to concerns about the city’s exhausting landfill space within the next decade. Jakarta’s government also encourages waste management independence for industrial and commercial areas, reducing reliance on state-run waste collection.

Environment Ministry Reacts to Jakarta's 'Waste Island' Plan Jakarta provincial government is reportedly considering the construction of an island in the Thousand Islands as a landfill or a 'waste island'.

At a recent WTO committee on goods meeting, India, Indonesia, and Turkey raised concerns about the EU's proposed waste shipment rules. These countries fear that the new rules could go beyond environmental protection and unintentionally disrupt global trade. EU waste exports surged by 72% since 2004, reaching 35 million tons annually in 2023, with nearly half going to non-OECD countries. A new regulation requires non-OECD nations to notify the EU of their waste management capabilities by May 21, 2027. The EU aims for equivalent standards without demanding full compliance with its laws, offering support for implementation.

India, Turkey, and Indonesia Express Concerns over EU Waste Shipment Regulation : Chemical Industry Digest India, Indonesia, and Turkey have voiced concerns regarding the European Union’s (EU) proposed regulation on waste shipments. Critics argue that the regulation, which applies to both hazardous waste and waste […]

📣 You are invited! 🤩
Join us for the Launch Ceremony of our 33 bright and passionate Young Environmental Leaders from the 8 ASEAN Member States and Japan! 🥳
These AJYELN Fellows are set to implement innovative and creative projects addressing plastic pollution in their respective local communities solving marine plastic waste problem.
✨ We also have Mr. Benedict Wermter, the host of BuleSampah , as our Keynote Speaker and other awesome speakers from ERIA Regional Knowledge Centre on Marine Plastic Debris, ASEAN Secretariat, and Japan Ministry of Environment 🤩
🔔 So, DON'T MISS IT and GRAB YOUR SEAT here: https://bit.ly/reg_ajyeln24_launch or scan the QR code!

The Fisheries Department and Reef Check Brunei removed over 100 kg of fishing nets from Brunei’s Pelong Rocks, a marine conservation area. This cleanup aimed to mitigate threats to marine biodiversity, such as entanglement risks for turtles and dolphins. Led by skilled divers, the initiative underscored proactive conservation and promoted sustainable practices in marine ecosystems. Reef Check Brunei's expertise in reef health assessment ensured effective cleanup in critical areas, highlighting the importance of community engagement and responsible waste management.

Over 100kg underwater debris removed » Borneo Bulletin Online Over 100 kilogrammes (kg) of abandoned fishing nets were removed from Brunei’s coastlines by the Fisheries Department and Reef Check Brunei. The operation took place in Pelong Rocks, a designated marine conservation area where the accumulation of discarded fishing gear was identified as a pressing...

The Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry called for increased community participation in waste banks to support the country's waste reduction goals. They emphasized transforming waste banks into social businesses and building networks between stakeholders. Currently, the participation rate is low at 3.24 per 1,000 population, making it difficult to meet the 30% waste reduction target. As of 2024, Indonesia has 30,148 waste banks operating on reduce, reuse, and recycle principles.

Need to boost community participation in waste banks: Ministry Director of Waste Reduction at the Environment and Forestry Ministry Vinda Damayanti Ansjar highlighted the need to increase the participation of the ...

A new report finds big companies lacking in plastic pollution efforts, with nearly half failing grades for plastic use due to insufficient progress in reduction or recycling. The report recommends improvements in six key areas: recyclable packaging, reduced plastic use, recycled content, waste recovery, reusable packaging, and waste management laws.

Nearly half of all $1 billion-plus companies are failing the Plastics Scorecard | GreenBiz 107 of 225 companies received an F grade, Amazon and Macy’s among them, as “plastic intensity” increases.

Researchers have developed a new system to overcomes the prior limitations of satellite monitoring by identifying concentrated lines of floating plastic debris that act as indicators of hidden plastic hotspots. The successful identification of over 14,000 windrows in the Mediterranean Sea between 2015 and 2021 highlights the system's potential to target cleanup efforts, predict debris accumulation, and even track other maritime issues, while also emphasizing the gravity of plastic pollution as a symptom of human waste mismanagement.

Ocean trash can now be tracked from space Supercomputers helped unlock a satellite's ability to monitor the mountains of floating plastic.

In Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, a company called Rad successfully collected 1 million packaging units in one year, thanks to machines installed in several locations in Sarajevo Canton. Many citizens dispose of packaging without even selecting the incentive or benefit options. Interestingly, in over 50% of the cases when citizens did choose a benefit, they opted to donate to charity.

One Million Bottles were collected at Recycling Machines in Sarajevo - Sarajevo Times The Sarajevo-based company “Rad” announced that thanks to recycling machines installed at several locations in Sarajevo Canton, one million packaging units were collected in one year. They noted that the project “Recyclers in Bosnia and Herzegovina” has been going on for exactly one year. Ea...

At least 12 retailers in Vietnam are participating in the 2024 No Plastic Bag Campaign themed "Less Plastic Bags, More Life“, launched last week. This year’s campaign featured awareness-raising activities, including plastic waste mini-games and an online "Less plastic bags, more life" contest. Furthermore, a seminar on reducing single-use plastics in Vietnam is scheduled for late July in Hanoi.

Leading retailers join forces to reduce plastic bag usage Domestic retailers are joining hands to reduce use of plastic bags.

The Ministry of Environment of Cambodia is launching a program where over 100 factories will install monitoring systems to track plastic waste and harmful substances they release. This aims to keep the water clean and protect fish stocks, a vital food source for Cambodians. While there are some technical challenges, the Ministry is working with everyone involved, including local governments, to expand the program and include even smaller businesses. They also stress the importance of treating plastic waste and toxins before they even enter the rivers.

Factories installing systems to prevent toxic discharge into rivers - Khmer Times Over 100 factories and enterprises have committed to installing automatic monitoring equipment and data management systems in their facilities to prevent plastic waste and the discharge of toxic substances into rivers.

In Batangas, Philippines, a diving resort has launched a rice-for-trash program to combat plastic pollution threatening marine life. Since its inception nearly two years ago, over 4.3 metric tons of plastic waste have been collected, and 2.6 tons of rice have been distributed to participants, helping low-income families reduce their food expenses.

Philippine town cleans up beach in exchange for rice | REUTERS Green campaigners in a diving resort in the Philippines have come up with a novel way to clean up the town's shores - offering to swap a bag of rice for ever...

Between March and June 2024, Malaysian authorities seized 301 containers suspected of containing electronic waste from developed countries, often falsely declared under different categories. Many officials in these countries mistakenly believe their e-waste is processed ethically and environmentally, unaware it is sent to developing countries. To combat this, the Malaysian government is increasing penalties and enforcement, with the Environmental Quality Amendment Bill coming into effect on 7 July 2024. This bill imposes fines ranging from RM5,000 to RM10 million and mandatory imprisonment of up to five years for illegal dumping of scheduled waste onto Malaysian land or into its waters.

Malaysia uncovers at least 106 containers of e-waste in ports, vows stricter enforcement KLANG: At least 106 containers filled with electronic waste (e-waste) have been found in Malaysia’s ports over the past three months with close to another 200 containers also suspected to contain the same, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

Household participation in recycling in Singapore has increased, and total waste generation has decreased. However, the domestic recycling rate is at a 10-year low, and the overall recycling rate has dropped due to a reduction in construction waste. Challenges include contamination of recyclables and limited markets for recycled materials. The upcoming beverage container return scheme shows promise, but experts highlight the importance of better recycling practices and focusing on reducing the amount of waste output.

Singapore’s domestic recycling rate stalls at 12%, the lowest in over a decade In 2023, each person in Singapore threw out 0.88kg of rubbish a day, down from the 0.9kg in 2022. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment is optimistic about achieving a 70% reduction in ocean plastic waste by 2025. To achieve this ambitious target, the Ministry leads research initiatives to foster a knowledge-driven approach to combatting plastic pollution.

Indonesia optimistic of cutting ocean plastic waste by 70%: ministry The Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment underscored Indonesia's optimism about reducing plastic waste in the ocean by 70 ...

A women's association in Vietnam is turning trash into treasure and financial empowerment. Their program collects waste, transforming recyclables into usable products and selling the rest. These funds provide disadvantaged women with soft loans to launch businesses, lifting them out of poverty. The initiative not only promotes waste sorting and environmental protection, but also fosters community support and awareness about responsible waste management.

In Vietnam, initiative inspires women to convert garbage to money People would now bring the rubbish with them to the women's association meetings.

Over 80% of discarded textiles worldwide are not recycled or reused, underscoring the urgency for a circular economy. mandates producers to manage product collection, sorting, and recycling, fostering transparency and attracting investment in recycling infrastructure. In a recent episode of the Circular Economy Show by Ellen MacArthur Foundation, experts discuss the global challenges and opportunities in advancing a circular economy for textiles.

Pushing the boundaries of EPR policy for textiles Around the world, more than 80% of textiles leak out of the system when they are discarded. We need a new approach: a circular economy for textiles. A key pa...

Held in commemoration of World Environment Day 2024, a public dialogue explored the use of "nudges" to promote environmental sustainability. The event was organised by Center for Southeast Asian Studies - CSEAS and Norsk institutt for vannforskning - NIVA in collaboration with Kementerian Lingkungan Hidup dan Kehutanan and the Faculty of Economics and Business of Universitas Islam Negeri Jakarta. Experts, including a representative from Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris - ERIA discussed the application of behavioural economics, successful pilot projects using nudges to reduce plastic waste, and the importance of individual action in fostering a greener future.

News | RKC-MPD Explore the latest updates from our initiatives and endeavors aimed at combating marine plastic debris in the ASEAN+3 region.

A new study by SMERU Research Institute argues that effective marine conservation in Indonesia requires considering the well-being of coastal communities. The research found income inequality around marine protected areas and emphasizes the need for experts in both marine biology and community development. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries acknowledges the growing problem of marine plastic pollution and implements initiatives like "Loving Sea Month" to address it and highlighting the need for a well-rounded approach to marine conservation.

Researcher Says Indonesia's Marine Conservation Needs Improved Coastal Community Well-Being Marine conservation in Indonesia must go hand-in-hand with improved well-being for coastal communities, according to a SMERU researcher.

The marine pollution control industry is evolving with major trends like maritime robotics, nanotechnological removal, marine noise pollution control, bioremediation enhancements, and smart monitoring systems. With over 11,300 companies globally and 800+ new ones founded in the last five years, this sector is growing rapidly. These companies have attracted significant investment, averaging USD 7.5 million per funding round in the past five years.

10 New Marine Pollution Control Companies | StartUs Insights Explore 10 new marine pollution control companies from 800+ entrants, advancing the industry with oil spill granular sponge technology, advanced underwater drone, hydrocarbon leak detection & more.

The Responsible Sourcing Initiative launched a framework to promote a sustainable and ethical recycled plastics sector. This initiative prioritizes protecting the rights of waste pickers, a crucial but often marginalized group, and aligns with upcoming international plastic pollution regulations. The framework will be piloted in India, Indonesia, Kenya, and Vietnam.

Global plastics framework promotes right of waste pickers The framework was produced by the Responsible Sourcing Initiative (RSI), which campaigns in the wast...

The 9th Private Sector Initiatives to Reduce Marine Plastics, "Brunei's Journey to Plastic Sustainability: Hands-on Initiatives in Action," concluded today in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam.

We appreciate the valuable contributions of all our speakers and participants. Special thanks go to Tebalik Plastik, Kaimana Living, Precious Plastic Brunei, and Prof. Scott Valentine for sharing their expertise and experiences.

We also extend our appreciation to the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) of Brunei Darussalam for their collaboration and GIZ Indonesia & ASEAN for their ongoing support.

Finally, a sincere thank you to all attendees who played a part in making this event a success. Together, we can make a significant impact on reducing marine plastic pollution in Brunei and across the region.

See you at our next PSP seminar!

China has launched a 3-year campaign to tackle coastal ocean litter, focusing on cleaning coastal areas, monitoring waste, and preventing inland waste from reaching the sea. Led by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, the initiative aims to clean 65 bay areas by 2025 and establish regular cleanup programs by 2027, building on existing marine protection efforts and a stricter Marine Environment Law. Policymakers in China are increasingly prioritizing marine pollution amidst urbanization and heightened fishing activities.

China Launches Three-Year Campaign Against Ocean Litter The initiative aims to significantly clear 65 bay areas by 2025 and establish regular clean-ups by 2027.

The Philippines’s Extended Producer Responsibility Act, which mandates businesses to manage plastic packaging waste, has exceeded expectations in its first year. Not only did the country achieve its 20% plastic waste recovery target for 2023, but the number of businesses registered under the program also surged by 37%. This successful implementation offers a promising outlook for reaching the ambitious goal of 80% plastic waste recovery by 2028.

20% of plastic wastes diverted in first year of EPR Act in the Philippines The Philippines Government reports that businesses have met their target in the first year of implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act.

Malaysia has announced a comprehensive approach to tackling river pollution, focusing on preventive measures rather than just treatment. This initiative involves state governments, local authorities, and district-level committees to preserve river ecosystems at the community level. A newly established Special Committee will implement integrated enforcement measures. The direct disposal of sewage into rivers, especially in rural areas, remains a major concern. Current data shows that while 25 rivers are classified as polluted, 72% of monitored rivers are clean, and 24% are moderately clean.

Nation adopts comprehensive approach to address river pollution — DPM KUCHING, June 9 — Malaysia adopts a comprehensive approach, rather than just treating the problem, to solve the issue of river pollution in the country, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, said prevent...

📢 NEXT THURSDAY! We will dive into Brunei Darussalam's journey towards sustainability, focusing on the innovative actions undertaken by both the private sector, as well as government and non-profit initiatives aimed at enhancing plastic circularity in the country.

Mark your calendar:
📆 June 20, 2024
⏰ 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM (Brunei Time | GMT+8)
🤳 Register at: bit.ly/PSPBrunei2024

Organized as part of Brunei Darussalam's World Environment Day event series in collaboration with ASEAN-German Cooperation Project and the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe), Ministry of Development of Brunei Darussalam, this webinar will explore:

✔ Brunei's innovative business practices led by private companies to reduce plastic waste.
✔ Government support and non-profit initiatives to improve Brunei's plastic waste management.
✔ Way forward to enhance multistakeholder collaboration for plastic circularity in Brunei.

ERIA: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia
GIZ Indonesia & ASEAN
Tebalik Plastik
Kaimana Living
Universiti Brunei Darussalam

Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed two innovative aerogels for radiative cooling and electromagnetic wave absorption. The radiative cooling aerogels, made from upcycled PET bottles, provide an energy-free cooling solution by emitting infrared radiation, achieving a 2°C cooling effect in Singapore’s climate. This innovation not only provides an energy-efficient cooling solution but also helps address the global plastic waste crisis by utilizing disposable PET bottles.

NUS researchers develop new aerogels for radiative cooling and the absorption of electromagnetic waves Aerogels, known for their porosity and low density, are solid materials that offer versatile functionality — from gobbling up fat globules in weight-management supplements to facilitating more sustainable metal-recycling processes. Traditionally used to provide thermal insulation in the aerospace ...