Organic waste is a type of waste derived from living organisms that can naturally decompose and has great potential to be reused as a valuable resource.
In Indonesia, organic waste makes up the largest portion of national waste composition, especially from households and traditional markets.
If not properly managed, this waste can cause various environmental problems. However, with proper processing, organic waste can become a solution for producing renewable energy, natural fertilizers, and even new economic opportunities.
This article will explore in detail the definition, types, examples, environmental impacts, as well as processing methods and benefits of organic waste.
What Is Organic Waste?
Organic waste refers to waste originating from living organisms such as humans, animals, and plants. It is biodegradable, meaning it can naturally break down with the help of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi.
Common examples include food scraps, dry leaves, and animal manure. Due to its biodegradable nature, organic waste is actually part of the natural ecosystem cycle.
However, problems arise when large volumes of organic waste are not properly managed. Accumulation in landfills without proper treatment can produce harmful gases and pollute the environment.
Types of Organic Waste
Generally, organic waste is divided into two main categories based on moisture content:
- Wet Organic WasteThis type contains high moisture, making it decompose quickly. It is commonly generated from daily household activities and often produces unpleasant odors if not processed promptly.
- Dry Organic WasteThis type has low moisture content and takes longer to decompose. It is often used for handicrafts, alternative fuels, or as compost material.
Examples of Organic Waste in Daily Life
Organic waste is commonly found in everyday activities. Here are some examples:
- Household Food WasteThe most dominant type in Indonesia, including leftover rice and uneaten food. It can become compost or animal feed if processed properly.
- Fruit and Vegetable PeelsBanana peels, orange skins, and vegetable leaves are rich in nutrients and suitable for organic fertilizer.
- Dry Leaves and TwigsOften found in yards or gardens. Instead of burning them—which causes air pollution they can be turned into compost or mulch.
- Animal ManureWaste from livestock such as cows, goats, and chickens can be used as organic fertilizer or raw material for biogas.
- Fishery Waste (e.g., Fish Bones) Often discarded, but can be processed into bone meal for animal feed or fertilizer.
- Paper WastePaper, cardboard, and tissues are also considered organic as they come from wood fibers and can be recycled or composted under certain conditions.
Environmental Impacts of Organic Waste
Although natural, organic waste can still have negative impacts if not managed properly:
- Greenhouse Gas EmissionsOrganic waste decomposing anaerobically in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
- Water and Soil PollutionDecomposition produces leachate, which can contaminate groundwater, rivers, and lakes.
- Odors and Health IssuesRotting waste creates unpleasant smells and attracts pests like flies and rats that may spread disease.
- Ecosystem DisruptionIf it pollutes water bodies, oxygen levels can drop, harming aquatic life.
How to Manage Organic Waste Effectively
Proper management can reduce environmental impact and provide economic value:
- CompostingA simple and widely used method that uses microorganisms to convert organic waste into compost. Benefits include:
- Improving soil fertility
- Enhancing soil structure
- Reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers
- Anaerobic Digestion (Biogas)This method produces biogas without oxygen, which can be used for:
- Cooking fuel
- Electricity generation
- Renewable energy
The byproduct can also be used as fertilizer.
- Animal Feed ProcessingOrganic waste like vegetable and fruit scraps can be processed into safe and nutritious animal feed.
Benefits of Organic Waste
When properly utilized, organic waste offers many benefits:
- Produces Organic FertilizerMore environmentally friendly and improves long-term soil health.
- Enhances Soil FertilityRich nutrients help improve soil quality naturally.
- Renewable Energy SourceBiogas production reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
- Reduces Waste VolumeSignificantly decreases the amount of waste sent to landfills.
- Creates Economic OpportunitiesFrom compost production to handicrafts, organic waste can generate additional income.
Moving Toward Better Waste Solutions with TBS
TBS continues to strengthen its role as a leading waste management company in Southeast Asia by providing integrated solutions for medical, hazardous, industrial, and household waste.
Through strategic initiatives, TBS has expanded its waste management business in Indonesia and Singapore.
In 2023, TBS began by acquiring AMES, a leading medical waste management company in Singapore with over 20 years of experience, and ARAH, which operates across 15 provinces in Indonesia.
Both companies are managed under PT Solusi Bersih TBS (SBT), specializing in medical, hazardous, and domestic waste management.
In March 2025, TBS further strengthened its position by acquiring Sembcorp Environment, a Singapore-based company specializing in municipal waste management, recycling, and environmental solutions.
The company was later rebranded as CORA Environment in September 2025 and is now a leading waste-to-energy operator, processing over 1.1 million tons of waste annually and generating around 385 GWh of energy.
Today, TBS operates 5 waste processing facilities in Indonesia and Singapore, manages over 1 million tons of waste annually, and serves more than 475,000 customers.
Now is the time to take real action with TBS to manage waste more responsibly and create a cleaner, more sustainable future.
