Case Study on Sustainable Waste Management of FMCG Market Returns

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to analyze sustainable waste management strategies for market return products in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, with a focus on reuse into alternative fuels and animal feed. It investigates innovative methods to improve sustainability, operational efficiency, and environmental impact reduction. Study Design: This study adopts a descriptive qualitative case study design. Location and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted in a large FMCG company in Indonesia over a six-month period, from January to June 2024. Methodology: Data was collected through in-depth interviews with operations managers and sustainability officers, direct field observations of waste sorting and treatment activities, and analysis of company documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and sustainability reports. Waste management processes are evaluated for their efficiency and potential to reuse market-return products into usable resources. Techniques such as barcode-based tracking systems and digital monitoring are also assessed to have an impact on improving waste management practices. Results: These findings highlight that approximately 75% of returnable products are reusable, with 45% converted into alternative fuels, such as bio-pellets for industrial use, and 30% processed into animal feed. The integration of eco-friendly technology improves tracking and operational efficiency by 20%. Challenges identified include regulatory gaps and inconsistent waste handling practices across different regions. Conclusion: Sustainable waste management from FMCG market returns not only minimizes environmental risks but also provides viable solutions for resource optimization, such as the production of alternative fuels and animal feed. This practice improves operational efficiency and strengthens brand reputation. Future research should focus on developing a comprehensive regulatory framework and scaling up these solutions to other sectors.