The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has raised issues with waste management. In Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, the increasing amount of medical waste during the pandemic is not in line with the availability of waste management facilities. Furthermore, the amount of plastic waste is also rising because people rely more on food delivery services. This causes a plastic waste ban roll-back in some countries. In this difficult situation, it is crucial for ASEAN countries to strengthen their waste management policies.

The need for a circular economy for plastics has become a global concern. Plastic marine litter has been recognised as a global environmental issue, and many countries have introduced policies to reduce single-use plastics. Recycling of plastic waste should also be strengthened to reduce plastic marine litter. This report aims to provide basic information and policies on plastic recycling, including good practices in Asian countries.

Indonesia has the largest economic exclusive zone in Asia, and Japan the second largest. Marine resources are their main development assets. Indonesia and Japan rely on marine logistics and fisheries, of which infrastructure and connectivity are important aspects. Both countries are prone to disasters, including tsunamis, and should improve their disaster management. And both countries should improve their waste management to eliminate marine debris and pollution.