Towards Zero Waste to Landfill: Evaluating Municipal Solid Waste and Refuse-Derived Fuel Potential in Yogyakarta City, Indonesia

Abstract

Solid waste management (SWM) is a critical issue in urban areas globally, including Yogyakarta City, Indonesia. The closure of the Piyungan landfill has intensified the need for sustainable waste management alternatives. This study examines the current state of municipal solid waste (MSW) in Yogyakarta and explores the potential for producing refuse-derived fuel (RDF) from rejected fractions. Yogyakarta generates approximately 298.87 tons of MSW daily, with a significant portion being organic waste, followed by plastics and paper. Waste pretreatment processes are important to meet RDF standards. Efficient source segregation and establishing large-scale Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) are essential steps toward reducing landfill dependency. These measures can significantly reduce environmental impact and maximize resource utilization, promoting a more sustainable and efficient waste management system for Yogyakarta.