Sorting organic waste that can be processed into compost, animal feed, or maggot cultivation.
TANGERANG — Ramadan is a month of self-restraint, including in consumption. Reducing waste is part of the effort to maintain cleanliness, comfort in worship, and responsibility towards the environment.
Ramadan is synonymous with increased consumption of food and drink, especially during iftar and suhoor. This condition impacts the rise in household waste generation, particularly food scraps and single-use packaging.
The Ramadan momentum should not only be interpreted as an increase in spiritual worship, but also as an opportunity to strengthen concern for cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
The Head of the Tangerang City Environmental Agency explained that the types of waste that increase during Ramadan include leftovers from iftar and suhoor.
“Inorganic waste such as takjil packaging, shopping bags, beverage bottles, including styrofoam, single-use containers, as well as paper and cardboard from online shopping activities,” he stated.
He added that the surge in waste during Ramadan can cause various negative impacts, such as waste accumulation at Temporary Disposal Sites and residential areas, unpleasant odors, potential disease spread, clogged waterways increasing flood risk, and added burden on transportation and final processing site capacity.
“If not managed properly, this condition can reduce the community’s comfort in performing worship,” he said.
Ramadan
“Ramadan” is not a physical place or cultural site, but rather the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Its history dates to 624 CE when, according to Islamic tradition, the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during this month. The observance commemorates this revelation and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Tangerang City
Tangerang City is a major industrial and residential hub located in the western part of Indonesia’s Greater Jakarta area. Historically, it was a significant port city and settlement area for Chinese immigrants in the 17th century, earning it the nickname “Benteng” (Fort) from which its name is derived. Today, it is known for its diverse culture, manufacturing centers, and landmarks like the Benteng Heritage Museum.
Temporary Disposal Sites
“Temporary Disposal Sites” are designated locations used for the interim storage and processing of waste materials, often established in response to emergencies, natural disasters, or as a stopgap during landfill transitions. Historically, such sites have been rapidly deployed following events like earthquakes or floods to manage sudden surges in debris, though they are intended for short-term use to prevent long-term environmental impact. Their history is tied to modern waste management challenges, balancing immediate public health needs with the goal of eventual proper disposal or recycling.
3R principle
The “3R principle” is not a specific place or cultural site, but an environmental concept. It stands for **Reduce, Reuse, Recycle**, and it originated as a waste management hierarchy promoted by environmental movements and governments, particularly gaining widespread adoption from the late 20th century onward. The principle provides a guideline for minimizing waste and conserving resources by prioritizing reducing consumption first, reusing items second, and recycling materials last.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
“Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” is not a physical place but a globally recognized environmental slogan and waste management hierarchy. It was popularized in the 1970s during the environmental movement, promoting the idea of minimizing waste, reusing items, and recycling materials to conserve resources and protect the planet. The phrase represents a core principle of sustainable living and modern environmental policy.
Low-Waste Ramadan Movement
The Low-Waste Ramadan Movement is a contemporary, grassroots initiative within Muslim communities worldwide that encourages environmentally sustainable practices during the holy month. It aims to reduce the significant food waste and single-use plastic consumption often associated with Ramadan’s communal iftars (evening meals) and charitable giving. Historically, this movement has grown in the 21stst century, drawing inspiration from both Islamic principles of resource conservation and the global zero-waste movement.
Tangerang City Environmental Agency
The Tangerang City Environmental Agency (Dinas Lingkungan Hidup Kota Tangerang) is a local government body responsible for managing environmental protection, sanitation, and waste management in Tangerang City, Indonesia. It was established to address the significant environmental challenges, such as flooding and pollution, that have accompanied the city’s rapid industrial and population growth. Its ongoing work focuses on implementing policies and programs to create a cleaner and more sustainable urban environment.
