Open Waste Burning And Health Risks In Indonesia: A 2020–2025 Literature Review

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Open waste burning remains a persistent environmental health challenge in many low- and middle-income settings, including Indonesia, where gaps in waste collection, limited landfill capacity, and household-level disposal practices contribute to routine burning of mixed waste streams. This article aims to synthesize 2020–2025 English-language literature on open waste burning with a focus on environmental health risks, exposure pathways, and practical interventions relevant to Indonesian contexts. A qualitative literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed journal articles and selected authoritative reports published between 2020 and 2025. The review prioritized studies addressing emission characterization, toxic pollutant profiles, exposure assessment, and associated health outcomes. Findings indicate that open burning of mixed waste especially plastics and composite materials generates substantial fine particulate matter and toxic co-pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, acidic gases, and persistent organic pollutants, which elevate risks for respiratory and cardiovascular morbidity and contribute to longer-term cancer risk. Evidence also highlights environmental contamination through ash deposition and resuspension of contaminated particulates. Effective mitigation requires integrated strategies: reliable waste collection, source segregation, safer treatment for organics, targeted risk communication, and governance measures that align enforcement with service provision. The article concludes with actionable recommendations for campus and community programs, local governments, and public health stakeholders to reduce open burning and protect population health.