High-Risk Industries Requiring Strict B3 Waste Management

B3 waste (Bahan Berbahaya dan Beracun) is a major compliance concern for many businesses in Indonesia. As industries grow, so does the volume of hazardous waste that can harm people and the environment if not managed properly.  

Clear rules now define what qualifies as B3 waste, how it must be handled, and which sectors must follow strict B3 waste management procedures. 

Understanding these classifications and securing the necessary licenses are crucial for companies to operate legally and avoid penalties. This article highlights the industries most affected and the regulations that guide proper waste management in Indonesia. 

What Qualifies as B3 Waste in Indonesia? 

In Indonesia, B3 waste management is governed by a structured legal framework that outlines how hazardous waste must be identified, classified, and handled. Several key regulations define what qualifies as B3 waste in Indonesia and how businesses must manage it to stay compliant. 

• Law No. 32 of 2009: The main framework for environmental protection, including rules for handling and disposing of hazardous materials. 
• Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021: Replaces PP 101/2014 and provides detailed guidance on pollution control and B3 waste management, including approvals and sanctions. 
• Ministerial Regulation No. 6 of 2021: Sets the technical procedures for B3 waste classification, storage, transport, treatment, disposal, and technical approvals (PLB3 and SLO-PLB3). 
• B3 Waste Management Standards: Company SOPs or industry standards to ensure safe handling. 
• ISO 14001: An international system that helps businesses manage environmental risks, including B3 waste. 

B3 Waste Classification 

Although each regulation contains detailed categories, B3 waste is generally classified into: 

• Toxic waste (chemical-heavy or harmful to health) 
• Flammable waste (easily ignited) 
• Corrosive waste (damages materials or tissues) 
• Reactive waste (can explode or release dangerous gases) 
• Infectious or biological waste (healthcare and lab waste) 

Companies producing any of these hazardous categories must comply with the regulatory framework and secure the necessary B3 Waste Permit.

Key Industries That Must Follow B3 Waste Management 

In Indonesia, industries like manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, and healthcare must manage B3 waste due to hazardous materials.  

• Manufacturing activities such as chemical, automotive, electronics, textile, and pharmaceutical production. 
• Mining and mineral processing that produce heavy metal residues, chemical waste, and used oil. 
• Oil and gas operations that generate sludge, solvents, drilling fluids, and flammable waste. 
• Healthcare and laboratory facilities that produce infectious waste, chemical reagents, expired medicines, and sharps. 
• Agriculture and food processing sectors that use pesticides, fertilizers, and cleaning chemicals are classified as B3 waste in Indonesia. 
• Construction and infrastructure projects that generate paint waste, asbestos, solvents, and contaminated materials. 
• Power and energy plants that produce ash, battery waste, and other hazardous residues require proper waste management (B3). 
• Shipping, ports, and logistics operations that handle fuel residues, lubricants, and chemical spills. 

All of these industries must comply with B3 regulations and obtain the required B3 Waste Permit to ensure safe, legal operations.

Why These Industries Need Strict B3 Management 

Industries that generate hazardous materials must follow regulated B3 waste management procedures to prevent environmental and operational risks. Key reasons include: 

• Protecting Human Health: B3 waste can cause poisoning, infections, burns, or long-term health issues if not handled properly. 
• Preventing Environmental Damage: Toxic and corrosive waste can contaminate soil, water, and air, leading to costly restoration efforts. 
• Reducing Operational Accidents: Reactive and flammable waste increases the risk of fires, explosions, and chemical spills at industrial sites. 
• Maintaining Business Continuity: Non-compliance may result in shutdowns, delays, or suspension of operational permits. 
• Avoiding Legal Sanctions: Improper management of B3 waste in Indonesia can result in fines, administrative penalties, or criminal charges. 

• Supporting Sustainable Practices: Proper waste treatment reflects responsible operations and improves ESG performance. 

These reasons reinforce the need for industries to ensure proper handling, documentation, and disposal of B3 waste, often supported by securing the appropriate permit. 

The Role of Proper Licensing in B3 Compliance 

To manage B3 waste responsibly in Indonesia, obtaining the necessary environmental permits is essential, helping your business feel accountable and compliant. 

An environmental permit is required before a company can apply for its Industrial Business License (IUI). It verifies that the business has evaluated its impact and can safely manage activities connected to B3 waste management.  

Depending on the level of environmental impact, companies will fall into one of three categories: 

• AMDAL: Required for high-impact or large-scale industries. 
• UKL–UPL: Required for medium-impact businesses with routine operational waste. 
• SPPL: Required for small businesses with minimal environmental risk. 

By securing the correct environmental permit, businesses ensure smoother licensing, reduce compliance risks, and create a strong foundation for applying for the B3 Waste Permit.

Guide to Doing Business in Jakarta

Mailchimp Free eBook Indonesia Business Insight

Newsletter

Full Name

Email

I have read InCorp's Privacy Policy and agree to InCorp using my information provided to contact me about related content, and services.*

Subscribe

Start Your B3 Compliance the Right Way with InCorp 

Managing B3 waste in Indonesia can be complex, but InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) offers dedicated support to help your business feel confident and secure in compliance. 

We support companies with: 

• Guidance on B3 waste classification and regulatory requirements 
• Preparation and submission of environmental documents (AMDAL, UKL-UPL, SPPL) 
• Application and processing of the B3 Waste Permit 
• Compliance advisory for ongoing waste management B3 activities 

With the correct permits and proper management processes, your operations can run smoothly while meeting all environmental obligations. Contact our experts to ensure your B3 waste management is fully compliant and efficient. 

Fill out the form below and start your B3 compliance journey with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions