Medan, August 31, 2026 — The Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FT USU), participated in discussions on the concept, collaboration, and potential financing of a waste management program in Samosir Regency. The discussion was attended by Prof. Dr. Eng. Himsar Ambarita, S.T., M.T.; Zaid Perdana, S.T., M.T., Ph.D.; Prof. Dr. Ir. Ilmi, M.Sc.; Dr. Eng. Ir. Taufiq Bin Nur, S.T., M.Eng.Sc.; and Yasmine Anggia Sari, S.Si., M.T.

The forum discussed the development of a collaborative scheme involving the Government of Samosir Regency, USU, BTN, and other strategic partners. The proposed scope includes waste sorting and collection, Waste Banks, community education, the circular economy, waste management facilities, community empowerment, and support for tourism areas.

Under the proposed division of roles, USU would support concept development, technical studies, waste processing technology, system planning, assistance, monitoring, evaluation, and innovation development. BTN is being considered as a potential financing partner and as a partner in developing the transaction ecosystem for Waste Banks, while the local government would be responsible for policy, data, site provision, licensing, and institutional aspects.

The discussion also proposed a pilot project with clearly defined locations, waste sources and volumes, facility requirements, human resources, timelines, financing, and measurable success indicators. The potential conversion of waste into alternative fuel for vessels in Samosir still requires further assessment of the technology, fuel quality, safety, economic feasibility, engine requirements, and applicable regulations before it can be implemented.

The proposed follow-up actions include refining the concept, determining the focus and location of the pilot project, mapping requirements, identifying potential partners, and preparing more concrete materials for the local government and prospective supporting partners. This initiative supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, as well as SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through the study of alternative energy and multi-stakeholder collaboration. FT USU encourages waste management solutions that are grounded in research and subjected to measurable testing before being scaled up.