In the heart of Indonesia’s bustling textile industry, a critical evaluation of hazardous and toxic waste management practices is shedding light on both achievements and areas for improvement. The study, led by Rachmawati Sugihhartati Dj. from the Environmental Engineering department at the Institut Teknologi Nasional in Bandung, focuses on a polyester-producing manufacturing plant in Karawang, West Java. The research, published in the Journal of Natural Resources and Environmental Management (Jurnal Sumber Daya Alam dan Pengelolaan Lingkungan), offers valuable insights into the industry’s environmental practices and their commercial implications.
The textile industry is a significant contributor to Indonesia’s economy, but it also generates substantial hazardous and toxic waste (HTW). The production process at the studied plant yields a range of HTW, including sludge from wastewater treatment, diethylene glycol residue, incinerator ash, and contaminated rags. Effective management of these wastes is crucial to prevent harm to human health and the environment.
Dj. and her team conducted an on-site evaluation of the plant’s HTW management practices, focusing on five key activities: packaging and containment, collection, storing, transportation, and symboling and labeling. Their findings revealed a commendable level of conformity with relevant regulations, with scores ranging from 85.20% to 100% for individual activities. The overall average conformity was an impressive 93%, placing the plant’s HTW management in the “very good” category.
However, the study also highlighted areas for improvement. “While the plant’s HTW management practices are generally commendable, there is still room for enhancement,” Dj. noted. She suggested that the industry could benefit from reducing waste through raw material substitution, process modification, and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies.
The commercial implications of effective HTW management are significant. For the energy sector, which often relies on byproducts from industrial processes, improved waste management practices can lead to more consistent and higher-quality feedstocks. Moreover, as environmental regulations tighten globally, industries that demonstrate robust waste management practices are likely to gain a competitive edge.
The study’s use of a Likert Scale to score conformity with regulations is a notable aspect. This approach provides a clear, quantifiable measure of performance, enabling industries to track progress and identify areas for improvement. As Dj. explained, “This scoring system allows for objective evaluation and comparison, facilitating continuous improvement in HTW management practices.”
The research by Dj. and her team underscores the importance of effective HTW management in the textile industry. As the industry continues to grow, so too will the need for robust, environmentally responsible practices. The findings of this study provide a valuable roadmap for achieving these goals, benefiting not only the textile industry but also the broader energy sector and the environment.