Harry Wijaya Supports Waste-To-Energy Project In Banjarmasin Pilot Program
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| Harry Wijaya supports a waste-to-energy program in Banjarmasin with Banjar and Barito Kuala to tackle waste issues and become a national pilot project. (Illustration image) |
BANJARMASIN — Deputy Chair of Banjarmasin City Council (DPRD), Harry Wijaya, has expressed strong support for a waste-to-energy initiative being developed by the Banjarmasin City Government in collaboration with neighboring Banjar Regency and Barito Kuala Regency.
The program is considered a strategic step to address the city’s growing waste management challenges while supporting the national effort to transform waste into electricity.
Regional Collaboration Seen As Key To Success
Harry Wijaya welcomed the recent meeting involving three regional leaders aimed at strengthening coordination and synergy in implementing the waste-to-energy program.
“We welcome the meeting of the three regional leaders to coordinate and collaborate in realizing this program initiated by the central government,” Harry said in Banjarmasin on Monday.
He explained that Banjarmasin City, Banjar Regency, and Barito Kuala Regency have been designated as one of the national pilot locations for the waste-to-energy transformation initiative.
The program was initiated by Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan and Minister of Environment Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, as part of the government’s broader effort to improve sustainable waste management nationwide.
Daily Waste Volume Reaches Hundreds Of Tons
According to data from the Banjarmasin Environmental Agency (DLH), the city generates more than 400 tons of waste per day. Combined with neighboring regions, the total waste volume is estimated to reach nearly 678 tons per day.
This volume is considered highly suitable for processing using modern technology capable of converting waste into electricity.
“If waste can be processed into electrical energy using today’s technology, it will be extraordinary and become a major solution to the waste emergency in Banjarmasin,” Harry explained.
He emphasized that the initiative not only addresses waste management issues but also opens opportunities for alternative and environmentally friendly energy sources.
Closure Of TPAS Basirih Demands Innovative Solutions
Banjarmasin City Government is currently facing significant challenges following the closure of the Basirih Final Waste Processing Site (TPAS Basirih).
The closure has increased urgency for innovative and sustainable waste management strategies.
According to Harry, the waste-to-energy initiative is one of the most promising innovations, although it requires proper infrastructure and significant investment.
“This program is one of the innovations we support. It is not easy to implement because it requires suitable land and substantial funding. However, if the three regions remain committed, it can be realized faster,” he added.
City Government Ready To Become National Model
Banjarmasin Mayor Muhammad Yamin HR previously stated that the city is ready to become a pilot region for the national waste-to-energy program.
He stressed the importance of cross-regional collaboration, noting that each region has different characteristics and dynamics in waste management.
This initiative is seen as a tactical step to accelerate the resolution of growing waste problems driven by increasing population density.
Four Proposed Locations Under Review
To support the project implementation, four potential sites have been proposed to the Ministry of Environment as integrated waste processing locations.
The proposed locations include:
Tabing Rimbah Waste Processing Site, Barito Kuala Regency
Basirih Waste Processing Site, Banjarmasin City
Area near Gambut Barakat Terminal (TGB), Banjar Regency
Behind Sambang Lihum Psychiatric Hospital, Banjar Regency
All proposed sites will undergo technical assessment by ministry teams to determine the most suitable location for the waste-to-energy facility.
Long-Term Environmental And Energy Solution
Waste-to-energy technology is widely viewed as a long-term solution capable of reducing landfill pressure while supporting regional energy resilience.
The initiative also aligns with national environmental policies focused on modern and sustainable waste management.
With strong support from the city council, local governments, and national ministries, the program is expected to move forward and deliver tangible benefits to local communities.
FAQ
1. What is a waste-to-energy program?
A waste-to-energy program uses technology to convert waste materials into electricity or other useful forms of energy.
2. Why was Banjarmasin selected as a pilot region?
Because the region produces a high volume of waste, making it suitable for testing modern waste-processing technologies.
3. How much waste is produced daily in Banjarmasin?
Banjarmasin produces more than 400 tons of waste daily, while the combined total from three regions reaches nearly 678 tons per day.
4. Where will the waste-to-energy facility be built?
Four potential sites are being evaluated, including locations in Banjarmasin, Banjar Regency, and Barito Kuala Regency.
5. What are the main benefits of waste-to-energy technology?
It reduces landfill waste, generates electricity, and supports environmentally sustainable waste management.