Fostering Environmental Awareness through Waste Management Training and the Establishment of a Waste Bank in Bareng Lor Village

Abstract

Household waste management in Bareng Lor Village remains challenging due to low waste sorting rates and suboptimal waste utilization. This community service program aims to improve environmental awareness through waste management education and the establishment of a Waste Bank. It employed a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, involving residents in problem identification, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Activities included outreach for Neighborhood Unit (RT) heads, the Family Welfare and Empowerment Movement (PKK), and residents; liquid compost training; construction of a Waste Bank facility in Community Association (RW) 04; and facility handover to the community. Results showed that 35 of 55 RT heads attended outreach sessions, while 4 of 5 RTs (80%) in RW 04 actively participated in establishing the facility. Participants also demonstrated enthusiasm and improved understanding of waste sorting and processing. However, the management committee had not been established by the program's end. Continued guidance and institutional strengthening are therefore needed to ensure sustainability.