Exploring the Feasibility of Implementing Deposit Return System (DRS) on PET bottles in Indonesia Lessons for Developing an Effective Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme

Lasmanatun, Eka Hilda Utami

4. Term

Urban, Energy and Environmental Planning, Master

2025

2025-05-28

80

Indonesien har vanskeligt ved at gennemføre udvidet producentansvar (EPR): Kun 20 ud af mere end 500 virksomheder deltager. Selv om genanvendelsen af PET-plastflasker, som ofte bruges til drikkevarer, opgives til 71 %, bliver meget til produkter med lavere værdi (downcycling), hvilket hæmmer målet om en cirkulær økonomi. Dette studie undersøger, hvordan en pant- og returløsning (Deposit Return System, DRS) for PET-flasker kan styrke EPR. I en DRS betaler forbrugerne et lille pant, som de får tilbage ved aflevering af flasker. Med kvalitative casestudier af Dansk Retursystem i Danmark, Plasticpay og KIBUMI peger resultaterne på behovet for en hybrid DRS-model, stærke og håndhævede regler, en flerkanals infrastruktur for indsamling, der inddrager den uformelle sektor, tilpasningsdygtig teknologi, fleksible pantesatser og bæredygtig finansiering. Studiet skitserer en implementering i tre faser, der internaliserer omkostninger og tydeliggør ansvarlighed, så flaske-til-flaske-genanvendelse og en cirkulær økonomi kan realiseres.

Indonesia is struggling to implement Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): only 20 of more than 500 companies are participating. Although recycling of PET plastic bottles commonly used for drinks is reported at 71%, much is downcycled into lower-value products, which limits progress toward a circular economy. This study examines how a Deposit Return System (DRS) for PET bottles could strengthen EPR. In a DRS, consumers pay a small deposit and get it back when bottles are returned. Using qualitative case studies of Dansk Retursystem in Denmark, Plasticpay, and KIBUMI, the research identifies the need for a hybrid DRS model, strong and enforceable regulations, a multi-channel collection infrastructure that includes the informal sector, adaptive technology, flexible deposit levels, and sustainable financing. The study proposes a three-phase rollout that internalizes costs and clarifies accountability, enabling bottle-to-bottle recycling and advancing a circular economy.

[This summary has been rewritten with the help of AI based on the project's original abstract]

Deposit Return System ; EPR ; Circular Economy ; Informal Sector ; DRS ; Extended Producer Responsibility

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