Constructing Environmental Awareness: The Implementation of Plastic Bag Reduction Policy in Bekasi Regency

This study analyzes the implementation of Bekasi Regency Regent Regulation Number 34 of 2019 concerning the Reduction of Plastic Shopping Bag Usage. The policy was introduced to reduce plastic waste that harms the environment through measures such as public socialization, social media campaigns, and improvements to waste management facilities and infrastructure. The research employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation studies. The findings reveal that the policy’s implementation still faces several challenges. While human resources at the Burangkeng Final Disposal Site have shown support, the Environmental Service remains constrained by a shortage of field officers. Moreover, waste management facilities at the Burangkeng site are inadequate, and time and financial resources within the Environmental Service are poorly organized. Although inter-organizational communication has been established, the consistency of socialization efforts has not been maximized. Additionally, the social, economic, and political context influences policy execution, with key obstacles including limited budget management and low public awareness regarding the importance of reducing plastic waste. The results of this study are expected to provide recommendations for the government to enhance the effectiveness of plastic waste reduction policies in Bekasi Regency.