Cutting Volume, Creating Space: How Harsono Reduced Waste Bulk at A Power Plant

Waste management in a power plant presents daily challenges. For Harsono, our general service colleague, it was an opportunity to devise a practical solution. He built a simple manual press that now helps him and his team handle plastic waste more efficiently.

Turning a challenge into a practical answer

OCS Indonesia delivers integrated facilities management at one of Southeast Asia’s largest power plants in Central Java. Thousands of people work across the site daily, generating a steady stream of waste. Plastic food and drink packaging makes up a significant portion.

When Harsono saw this plastic accumulating in the temporary storage area and taking up valuable space, he decided to go beyond his usual duties. Using scrap iron and metal plates, and applying welding skills he gained through OCS training, he built a manual press to reduce the bulk of plastic waste.

Harsono designed the press with his area supervisor and assembled it between shifts. The result is a solid, easy-to-use tool that meets daily operational needs. He also trained his teammates on its use, integrating the press into their routine waste management.

Measurable impact and personal recognition

The press compacts around 35 kilograms of plastic waste per cycle, significantly reducing its bulk. Despite the high volume of waste generated, it prevents plastic in the storage area from overflowing and keeps the space tidy and organised. Compacting the plastic also makes transportation to waste banks or landfill more efficient.

Harsono’s initiative has improved daily operations while supporting his own development. For this contribution, OCS Indonesia awarded him a TRUE Star programme in the Empowerment category.

His story exemplifies how practical skills and the right training can create a meaningful impact. By using available materials and his own initiative, Harsono has helped make waste management at the power plant more efficient and sustainable.