The Producer Responsibility in Plastic Waste Management: A Balance between Consumer Protection and Environmental Sustainability

Abstract Increasing plastic consumption has become a major challenge in waste management in Indonesia. The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) concept comes as a solution to shift the responsibility of waste management from consumers and government to producers. This study analyzes the implementation of EPR regulations in Indonesia, reviews the challenges faced, and offers recommendations to improve the effectiveness of this policy. The results show that EPR policy in Indonesia still faces various obstacles, namely lack of law enforcement, lack of recycling infrastructure, and low awareness and participation of producers. Comparative studies with other countries such as South Korea, Singapore and the European Union further emphasize the shortcomings of the EPR enforcement system in Indonesia. In addition, packaging return systems and recycling facilities are not yet widely available, limiting consumer involvement in plastic waste reduction efforts. To improve EPR implementation, it is necessary to strengthen regulations through stricter sanctions, develop adequate waste management infrastructure, and educate producers and consumers about the importance of participation in the EPR system.