Indonesia has launched a nationwide initiative to combat the growing threat of marine pollution, setting an ambitious goal of reducing ocean waste by 70% by 2029. The Waste-Free Healthy Oceans (Laut Sebasah) plan will be led by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, with a focus on waste reduction at key entry sites such as rivers, coastal zones, small islands, ports, and areas of intense marine activity.
Deputy Minister Didit Herdiawan, addressing the program’s inauguration, emphasised that marine debris remained a serious environmental concern for the country, with direct consequences for marine life, fisheries, and coastal livelihoods. The ministry intends to deploy procedures from upstream to downstream, ensuring that debris is intercepted before it reaches open waters.
The program will be implemented through collaborative efforts by government ministries, local governments, private businesses, research institutes, and non-governmental organisations. Authorities feel that multi-sector collaboration is critical for long-term success.
According to the National Garbage Management Information System (SIPSN), Indonesia’s garbage production may exceed 50 million tonnes by 2025. If not handled, it is estimated that over 20 million tonnes of material will enter the sea, causing major threats to biodiversity and ecosystems.
