Indonesia's Environment Minister advances Palembang waste‑to‑energy plant and circular waste policy

Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat urged the Palembang Waste‑to‑Energy (PSEL) project to handle at least 1,000 tonnes of solid waste daily. The plant, operated by a Chinese firm using technology already in use in China, is 81.94% complete and slated for full operation in October 2026, with a potential inauguration by President Prabowo later in the year.

In a separate meeting, Jumhur consulted former environment minister Emil Salim, who cautioned that waste should not be treated as mere refuse but as a resource within a circular economy. Salim emphasized collaborative action among central and local governments and civil society, urging that “waste must not become a trigger for environmental damage” and highlighting the importance of turning waste into valuable products.

Both initiatives reflect Indonesia’s push to integrate modern waste‑to‑energy technology with broader circular‑economy principles, aiming to create local jobs, educational opportunities, and reduce pollution.