Cimahi Faces Environmental Challenge from MBG Program

Surge in Food Waste Overwhelms Local Infrastructure

The implementation of the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) program in Cimahi has resulted in an unexpected environmental consequence: a significant increase in food waste. According to Chanifah Listyarini, Head of the Environmental Agency in Cimahi, the program has put additional strain on the city's already burdened waste management system.

Key Challenges in Waste Management

• Dramatic increase in organic waste: The MBG program has led to a surge in food waste, complicating waste management efforts.
• Existing infrastructure overwhelmed: Cimahi's waste management system was already operating at high capacity before the additional waste from the MBG program.
• Need for comprehensive solution: The situation highlights the necessity for a more robust waste management strategy that can handle both regular waste and the additional volume generated by large-scale feeding programs.

Environmental Concerns and Future Directions

The MBG program, while aimed at improving nutrition, has brought to light the critical need for better waste management practices in Indonesia. Addressing this issue will require coordination between local governments, environmental agencies, and program implementers to mitigate the environmental impact while maintaining the program's nutritional benefits.