Friday, May 26, 2023, Mayor of Bogor, Dr. Bima Arya Sugiarto attended the Paris International Forum to End Plastic Pollution in World Cities. The forum was held with the aim of addressing the serious problems faced by cities around the world due to plastic pollution.

As a collaborative effort between non-governmental organizations, local governments, and various stakeholders to find common solutions to reduce single-use plastic use and manage plastic waste more effectively, the forum brought together environmental experts, government representatives, activists, and citizens to share experiences, knowledge, and successful initiatives in dealing with plastic pollution.

One of the points discussed in this forum was the importance of reducing the use of single-use plastics and replacing plastics with environmentally friendly alternatives. Some cities have successfully implemented policies limiting the use of plastic bags, the use of environmentally friendly food utensils, and supporting sustainable packaging initiatives. The forum also encourages increasing public awareness of the negative impacts of single-use plastics and educating about alternative options that are more environmentally friendly.

In addition, the forum also discussed the importance of effective waste management infrastructure. Increasing the capacity of recycling systems, establishing easily accessible recycling centers, and optimizing waste collection systems are some of the steps that municipalities can take to reduce plastic waste that ends up in the ocean.

In his presentation, Dr. Bima Arya said that Bogor City produces 271,000-tons of waste per year and there is a 23% reduction in waste with only about 6% that can be managed. About 40% of waste comes from food waste, 62% is produced by households, and 20% of waste comes from commercial areas.

Data says that in 2022, Bogor City succeeded in increasing waste reduction from previously only 14% in 2019 to 23% in 2022. Through Mayor Regulation No. 61/2018, Bogor City is committed to reducing the consumption of single-use plastics in traditional markets and Mayor Regulation No. 1/2014 on Environmental Protection and Management.

Plastic pollution has become an urgent global issue, with serious impacts on the environment and human health. Every year, millions of tons of plastic enter the oceans and negatively impact marine ecosystems, animals, and people. Cities around the world are particularly the focus in efforts to tackle this problem, due to high levels of plastic consumption and limited waste management infrastructure.

The Paris International Forum serves as a platform for the exchange of the best ideas, knowledge and experiences in efforts to end plastic pollution in cities. Through close collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations, and citizens, it is hoped that innovative solutions can be created that are effective in addressing this problem.

The momentum of the Paris International Forum must be maintained and followed by concrete actions at the local, national, and international levels. Every city has an important role to play in reducing the use of single-use plastics and improving sustainable waste management. With strong cooperation and high level of commitment, we can create a cleaner and more sustainable future, free from plastic pollution in our cities. What about your city? Interested in reducing plastic pollution? Let's keep up with the news on WWF-Indonesia's social media!