To accelerate Southeast Asia's transition to a circular economy, the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) is actively fostering collaboration between the private and public sectors. The goal is to develop practical Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems specifically designed to optimize the lifecycle management of packaging products across the region.

EPR framework from ASEAN’s governments

"Clear, predictable, government-mandated and industry-run EPR frameworks are essential for scaling circular economy solutions across ASEAN,” commented Nugraheni Utami, Chief Country Representative for Indonesia, USABC.

As ASEAN member states move beyond traditional “take-make-dispose” models, the USABC underscores that a unified approach is paramount. Regionally aligned standards instill confidence in companies to invest in local recycling infrastructure, assured by clear and consistent rules that also encourage the seamless movement and exchange of materials across markets.

"Malaysia's upcoming EPR framework is an opportunity to build a practical, multi-material system that drives environmental impact and investment certainty," added Tina Jamaluddin, Chief Country Representative for Malaysia, USABC.

Supports from industry leaders

Industry leaders are already demonstrating commitment, such as Coca-Cola. The company has put efforts in advocating for well-structured EPR systems in Malaysia and Indonesia, and well-designed Deposit Return Systems (DRS) in Singapore.

“Across Southeast Asia, together with our bottling partners, we collaborate with governments, industry, recyclers, and NGOs to strengthen local recycling and collection systems and infrastructure,” said Umesh Madhavan, Director, Packaging Sustainability of Coca-Cola.

Crucial to these efforts are key partners like Mahija Foundation (Mahija Parahita Nusantara) in Indonesia and innovative recycling facilities such as Hiroyuki Industries in Malaysia and Amandina Bumi Nusantara in Indonesia. These entities provide the foundational infrastructure and technical capabilities vital for robust national EPR systems.

"A circular economy must be inclusive and ethical. At Mahija Foundation, we are implementing the Responsible Sourcing Initiative to ensure that the transition from informal to formal waste management puts people first. This ensures that the high-quality material entering the recycling loop is not only environmentally sustainable but socially responsible, uplifting the waste pickers who are the heroes of this ecosystem,” said Ardhina Zaiza, Chairwoman of Mahiija Foundation.

Collaborate to construct practical roadmap for ASEAN’s circular economy

While Southeast Asia's journey to a circular economy has its inherent challenges, this collaborative momentum demonstrates its immense possibilities. By uniting industry leaders, policymakers, and local recycling innovators, the region is actively constructing a practical, investment-focused roadmap.

This collective action is the key to overcoming obstacles and transforming the lifecycle of packaging for a more sustainable and inclusive Southeast Asia, pioneering industry-led transformation towards efficient material collection, recycling, and reuse.