Bandung –

Several environmental activists have expressed concerns about the incinerator project currently being implemented by the Bandung city government. They believe the project could create even bigger problems in the future.

These concerns were raised during a discussion held by the Zero Waste Indonesia Alliance (AZWI). Incinerators are waste-burning devices that process solid, liquid, or gas waste using high temperatures.

“In Bandung, unfortunately, the chosen solution for waste management is the extreme option of burning. The problem is, this will create new issues later on,” said the Executive Director of a sustainable earth preservation organization in Bandung.

The incinerator project was initiated by the West Java provincial government in May 2025 to address the overcapacity issue at the Sarimukti landfill. The government has allocated a budget of Rp 117 billion for 84 additional incinerators, with 43 units in Bandung City, 25 in Bandung Regency, 6 in Cimahi City, and 10 in West Bandung Regency (KBB).

In Bandung City, the local government aims to install incinerators at 30 locations. As of early July 2025, only 7 units were operational.

While acknowledging the urgent need to address the Sarimukti landfill’s overcapacity, critics argue that incinerators are not the right solution for waste management.

There are concerns that the project could normalize independent waste burning among residents, potentially leading to new problems, including health issues in the future.

“Because of incinerators, residents might stop sorting their waste. This reflects confused thinking and lacks scientific basis. It will lead us to bigger problems and could become a time bomb,” they warned.

“The current approach lacks proper planning to solve waste problems. While there is indeed a landfill crisis, the response creates new issues, especially environmental pollution. Ultimately, Bandung residents will suffer the consequences,” they added.

Critics note that Bandung already has a running waste management program called ‘Kang Pisman’ (Reduce, Separate, and Utilize waste). However, the incinerator project risks making these efforts meaningless.

“Everything gets hindered. To me, the waste problem only requires commitment and courage from local leaders. If the incinerator option continues, it will normalize waste burning among the public,” they emphasized.

Others argue that the incinerator project for waste management is fundamentally misguided, doubting its environmental friendliness.

“The key principles should be the right to live healthily, in a healthy environment, and to work in a healthy environment. These should guide all solutions,” they stated.

“We have a waste problem and seek solutions, but if the solution makes you sick, it’s not a solution—it’s creating new problems. The introduced technology lacks validation and certification. Claims of being environmentally friendly need proof,” they added.

Critics view the local government as shifting responsibility through the incinerator project, which may create future health issues.

“Waste transportation is the government’s basic service obligation. Making residents handle it themselves is wrong. The concept is flawed, especially by asking people to burn their waste,” they explained.

While acknowledging the Sarimukti landfill’s overcapacity, critics argue the incinerator project will burden Bandung residents with new problems.

The government should instead focus on changing household waste sorting habits. This requires time but must be supported by serious policy commitment.

“Don’t keep blaming residents when facilities are lacking. The enabling system to help people do this isn’t in place,” they said.

“The solution is for everyone to learn waste sorting—it must become a culture. The waste collection system must also support sorting to avoid frustration. Start with sorting, then cultivate no-burning practices—temporary burial is better,” they concluded.

Bandung

Bandung is the capital of West Java, Indonesia, known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Established by the Dutch in the early 19th century, it became a popular highland retreat and was later the site of the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference, a key event in the Non-Aligned Movement. Today, Bandung is a bustling city famous for its culinary delights, creative industries, and nearby volcanic attractions like Tangkuban Perahu.

Zero Waste Indonesia Alliance (AZWI)

The **Zero Waste Indonesia Alliance (AZWI)** is a coalition of organizations and communities in Indonesia dedicated to promoting sustainable waste management and reducing plastic pollution. Founded to address the country’s growing waste crisis, AZWI advocates for zero-waste policies, community education, and circular economy practices. Its efforts align with global environmental goals, aiming to create cleaner, waste-free communities across Indonesia.

Sarimukti landfill

The Sarimukti landfill, located in Bandung, Indonesia, is one of the largest waste disposal sites in the region, serving the city and surrounding areas. Established to manage the growing waste problem, it has faced challenges such as overcapacity and environmental concerns, including pollution and methane emissions. Efforts have been made to improve waste management, including waste-to-energy initiatives and community recycling programs.

West Java provincial government

The West Java Provincial Government is the administrative body governing West Java, Indonesia, established after the country’s independence in 1945. Based in Bandung, it oversees regional development, infrastructure, and cultural preservation in one of Indonesia’s most populous and economically significant provinces. The government also plays a key role in promoting Sundanese culture, the region’s dominant ethnic heritage.

Bandung City

Bandung, the capital of West Java, Indonesia, is a vibrant city known for its colonial architecture, cool climate, and thriving arts and culinary scene. Established by the Dutch in the early 19th century, it became a key cultural and educational hub, earning the nickname “Paris of Java.” Today, Bandung is celebrated for its creative industries, historic landmarks like Gedung Sate, and scenic surroundings, including the nearby Tangkuban Perahu volcano.

Bandung Regency

Bandung Regency, located in West Java, Indonesia, is a scenic area known for its lush highlands, tea plantations, and volcanic landscapes. Historically, it was part of the Sunda Kingdom and later developed under Dutch colonial rule, which established tea and quinine plantations in the 19th century. Today, it is a popular destination for nature tourism, offering attractions like the Kawah Putih crater and the Ciwidey hot springs.

Cimahi City

Cimahi City, located in West Java, Indonesia, began as a small village but grew significantly during the Dutch colonial era due to its strategic position between Bandung and Jakarta. It became a military center in the early 20th century, housing the Dutch East Indies army, and later retained this role after Indonesian independence. Today, Cimahi is known for its historical military sites, colonial architecture, and as a bustling suburban city near Bandung.

West Bandung Regency (KBB)

West Bandung Regency (KBB), located in West Java, Indonesia, was established in 2008 after being separated from Bandung Regency. Known for its scenic highland landscapes, tea plantations, and volcanic attractions like Tangkuban Perahu, it blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, including Sundanese traditions. The area has grown into a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor activities while preserving its rural charm.