RRI.CO.ID, Berau - Indonesia is transforming low-value plastic waste into alternative energy through a research-based technology in Derawan Island. The initiative was implemented in Berau, East Kalimantan, from Monday, July 20, to Friday, July 24, 2026.

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) introduced PITARA Version 2 pyrolysis technology at the Pulau Derawan waste processing facility. The innovation aims to support sustainable waste management and strengthen the circular economy in island communities.

The implementation involved collaboration between BRIN, PT Asian Bulk Logistics (ABL) Group, Berau Regency Government, and Pulau Derawan waste management operators. The initiative shows how research-based solutions can address environmental challenges faced by coastal communities.

Head of BRIN’s Center for Sustainable Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Research, Nugroho Adi Sasongko, said innovation implementation requires collaboration between researchers, governments, businesses, and communities. He explained that the Derawan project serves as a pilot model for plastic waste management in island areas.

Nugroho highlighted that PITARA Version 2 can transform low-value plastic waste into alternative fuel. He explained that the technology could support energy availability for communities in remote island regions.

“The implementation of Pirolisis PITARA Ver. 2 technology in the Derawan Islands is able to convert low-value plastic waste into BBMT equivalent to kerosene. The price of kerosene here reaches around Rp20,000 per liter, so it is expected that this machine can help provide energy that is highly needed by communities in island areas such as Derawan,” he said.

The technology converts plastic waste that is difficult to recycle into fuel through a controlled process. BRIN also applies a Living Laboratory model by involving local residents in waste collection, operation, and utilization.

The program includes operator training and technical assistance to ensure the technology can operate sustainably. BRIN hopes the initiative can become a model for circular economy development and plastic waste solutions across Indonesia’s island regions.