Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris - ERIA

29/05/2026

A new recycling technology developed by the Korea Institute of Machinery & Materials (KIMM) offers a potential alternative solution to the growing plastic waste crisis. Using plasma technology, the device can convert plastic waste into valuable chemicals such as benzene and ethylene in just 0.01 seconds through extremely hot ionized gas. Unlike conventional pyrolysis, the plasma torch process reportedly produces no toxic emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly recycling approach.

The game-changer: South Korea’s plasma torch breakthrough Last September, in a development you might have missed (unless you religiously follow the recycling news circuit), the Korea Institute of Machinery & Materials (KIMM) announced a major breakthrough: a revolutionary plasma technology for pla...

28/05/2026

During the 11th ASEAN Working Group on Chemicals and Waste (AWGCW) meeting, ERIA’s Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris reaffirmed its commitment to supporting regional efforts in addressing plastic pollution. Represented by the Centre’s Director, Mr Reo Kawamura, ERIA: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia highlighted a range of recent initiatives, ranging from research projects, to regional conference and workshops, aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and raising awareness on plastic pollution across ASEAN.

South Tangerang, 12 May 2026: ERIA’s Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris participated in the Open Session of the 11th Meeting of the...

22/05/2026

A recent study by researchers from the University of Queensland (UQ) found that plastic kettles may release billions of microplastic and nanoplastic particles into boiling water during use. While the researchers identified some methods that could reduce the amount of particles released, none were able to completely eliminate the contaminants. The findings contribute to growing concerns about daily human exposure to microplastics through common kitchen appliances.

We know that microplastics are leaking into our drinks from bottles, beverage cups, and packaging, and now researchers have shown that plastic kettles can contribute to our daily intake of plastics, too.

21/05/2026

Working with researchers from Keio University and industry partners, P-Life Japan Inc. identified microorganisms capable of decomposing conventional plastics such as polyethylene and polypropylene in soil and marine environments after being treated with P-Life technology. The process is designed to convert plastics into biodegradable materials that can be naturally consumed by specific microorganisms, offering a potential alternative to conventional plastic degradation methods that may leave microplastic residues behind.

TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 17, 2026--P-Life Japan Inc. has identified and verified groundbreaking s

20/05/2026

A new report by Perpetual highlights reuse and refill systems as a solution to the growing crisis of single-use packaging and products. Focusing on the ASEAN region, the report outlines the current landscape of reuse and refill initiatives, reviews regulatory frameworks across six Southeast Asian countries, and identifies key barriers to wider adoption. It also provides a framework for action, including financing mechanisms and priority opportunities to help scale reuse and refill systems in the region.

Reuse Realized: Unleashing Solutions in the ASEAN Region Reuse and refill systems are an under-leveraged solution to the crisis of single-use disposable packaging and products. This report includes provides guidance on how to address barriers and grow reuse and refill solutions in the ASEAN Region.....

19/05/2026

Norway, one of the largest donors to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is reviewing its funding contributions, raising concerns over the future of global plastics treaty negotiations that are already facing delays and political divisions. The uncertainty could also affect support programs that enable developing countries to participate in the treaty discussions.

Move by largest donor to environment programme poses further uncertainty for already troubled negotiations

18/05/2026

UN food security experts are calling for stronger safeguards on the use of recycled plastics in food packaging, warning that inadequate recycling processes could lead to chemical contamination and microplastic exposure. According to a new analysis by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), recycled plastics can help address the global waste crisis, but only if strict food safety standards and well-controlled recycling systems are in place.

Recycled plastics could help reduce the world’s growing waste crisis, but only if food packaging is carefully regulated to prevent contamination, according to a new analysis from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

15/05/2026

Indonesia is seeking transitional technologies to reduce methane emissions from landfills while awaiting the development of waste-to-energy facilities in several regions, including Jakarta. At the same time, the Environment Ministry is exploring more inclusive waste management approaches by involving local communities and informal waste workers, such as scavengers. The ministry is also assessing solutions developed by local innovators to help curb methane emissions and reduce waste accumulation in the short term.

13/05/2026

🌱 Empowering the next generation of green communicators in Southeast Asia!

ERIA’s Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, in collaboration with The Conversation Indonesia and GIZ Indonesia and ASEAN, successfully conducted the ASEAN Young Green Communicators (AYGC), a two-day science communication workshop held in Jakarta.

Bringing together 18 selected youths from 8 ASEAN countries out of more than 750 applicants, the programme equipped participants with foundational knowledge on plastic pollution issues and science communication skills. Working in pairs as writers and content creators, participants also developed initial drafts of knowledge products on assigned topics, aimed at translating complex materials into engaging and accessible narratives for wider audiences.

The workshop marks an important step in fostering young voices that can inspire greater environmental awareness and action across the region. Participants will continue refining their outputs over the next two weeks before finalising their knowledge products.

Stay tuned for the inspiring works they are developing!