Leakages Linked to Cost Reduction Schemes

The leakages of medical waste to scavengers and recycling centers can occur at healthcare facilities, during the transportation and in waste management companies.

KOMPAS/PRADIPTA PANDU MUSTIKA

An employee of PT Tenang Jaya Sejahtera in Karawang, West Java, Friday (12/13/2019) prepares to put medical waste into an incinerator. Medical waste is a hazardous and toxic material (B3) so employees are equipped with adequate personal protective equipment.

CIREBON, KOMPAS – The leakages of medical waste to scavengers and recycling centers are believed to be linked to schemes to reduce waste management costs. Leakages can occur at healthcare facilities, during the transportation and in waste management companies.

As of 2018, Indonesia had only six licensed medical waste management companies with a total processing capacity of 120.48 tons per day. Meanwhile, data from the Environment and Forestry Ministry shows that, as of 2018, Indonesia produced 300 to 340 tons of medical waste per day.