Recycling Pesticide Plastic Containers in Indonesia: An Evaluation of Technical, Economic, and Regulatory Impact Feasibility

This study explores the feasibility of recycling pesticide plastic packaging in Indonesia, focusing on technical, economic, and regulatory aspects. Technical feasibility analysis highlights challenges in material composition and pesticide residue removal, emphasizing the effectiveness of a cleaning process to ensure safety and quality of recycled materials. Economically, the study demonstrates significant cost savings when incorporating at least 40% recycled material into new packaging, enhancing market competitiveness. The regulatory analysis emphasizes the recommendation to the Indonesian government to reclassify waste pesticide containers from hazardous to non-hazardous materials following the validation of the triple rinsing trial’s effectiveness in removing pesticide residue. Reclassifying the containers as non-hazardous will reduce transportation costs from the source locations, such as plantations or farming areas, to the waste processing plant, thereby improving the economic feasibility of the pesticide plastic container recycling. Recommendations include conducting production trials with larger container sizes and adjusting the recycled material percentage, as well as exploring performance-enhancing additives for recycled plastics. Industries are advised to align with regulations by adopting best recycling practices and establishing robust compliance processes. Strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes and supporting advanced recycling infrastructure development are critical steps. These measures will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of recycling programs, ensuring regulatory compliance and promoting sustainable waste management. The study concludes that recycling pesticide plastic packaging is feasible and beneficial, provided that technical and economic challenges are effectively addressed with at least 40% recycled material content. The economic viability of recycling pesticide plastic containers will be further enhanced if the Indonesian government reclassifies the waste containers as non-hazardous, after triple rinsing process, thereby reducing transportation costs.