ZUG OBP

As one of the global plastic pollution hotspots, Southeast Asia accounts for more than one third of global plastic leakage into the environment, with short-lived plastic products representing around 90 per cent of plastic waste, making stronger Solid Waste Management systems critical to reducing leakage into waterways. In this context, the project targets Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, where hard-to-recycle plastic packaging is frequently discarded, landfilled, or incinerated due to limited recycling infrastructure and inconsistent source segregation. 

The project aims to

• change recycling behaviors of 100,000 young people, rewarding schools and improving educational facilities through recycled materials;
• enhance recycling process and support for recycling businesses;
• strengthen the development of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes;
• prevent an additional 10,000 tons of ocean-bound plastic in Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines, over a two-year period.

The project drives long-term behavior change by engaging schools and pupils through gamified waste separation through an app. Simultaneously, it scales the processing of low-value and flexible packaging by providing local recyclers with technical support and equipment. By sharing these insights, the project helps define local Extended Producer Responsibility schemes and Producer Responsibility Organisations (PRO) frameworks. 

Alongside the collaboration with SIG, Plastic Bank, and Decision Context, Wuppertal Institute provides evidence-based content on waste management in the respective countries and supports the app development with regards to key circular economy pillars. The researcher of the Institute also tracks the national EPR system developments, engages with the PRO and key stakeholders in order to provide tailored policy recommendations.