Transforming Waste Banks: Advancing a Community-Based Circular Economy in Temanggung Regency, Central Java, Indonesia
Project Overview
| Transforming a village waste bank into a hub for community-based circular economy, education, and recycling-driven micro-enterprises. |
What problem was the project designed to solve?
| The project addresses unmanaged household and agricultural waste in Kwadungan Gunung Village, Temanggung, where low awareness of sustainable waste practices and underutilised waste bank systems hinder environmental and economic progress. Recyclable and organic waste is often discarded, causing pollution and wasting potential value. The initiative targets local residents—especially women, farmers, and micro-entrepreneurs—by promoting the circular economy through education, waste bank optimisation, and business development. This year, the project includes hands-on training in eco-print fabric making, enabling participants to create marketable products from natural waste materials like leaves and flowers. This activity not only reduces organic waste but also empowers the community with creative skills that support sustainable income generation, strengthening the village’s transformation into a model of community-based circular economy. |
What did the project do and who was involved? How were you involved?
| The project implemented a series of activities to optimise the village waste bank and promote circular economy practices in Kwadungan Gunung Village. Key activities included community education on waste segregation, training on recycling-based microenterprises, and introducing an incentive-based waste collection system. This year’s highlight was a hands-on workshop on eco-print fabric making, teaching participants—mainly women and youth—how to create eco-friendly products using natural materials like leaves and flowers. The project involved local residents, village officials, university lecturers, and student volunteers. I was actively involved as a facilitator by coordinating the workshops and support participants in turning waste into valuable products. I also assisted in monitoring program outcomes and documenting the process to ensure knowledge sharing and the sustainability of the initiative. |
Ghina Fitri Ariesta Susilo
Assistant Professor in the Accounting Department, Universitas Tidar, Indonesia
What was the outcome?
| The project had a positive impact on the underrepresented community in Kwadungan Gunung Village, especially women, farmers, and youth. It improved awareness of sustainable waste management and encouraged active participation in the village waste bank. The eco-print fabric training became a highlight, enabling participants to turn leaves and flowers into eco-friendly, sellable products. As a result, several women began producing and marketing their creations, generating additional income and inspiring broader community involvement. The project also fostered collaboration between villagers, local leaders, and university partners, creating a supportive ecosystem for ongoing circular economy practices. It not only addressed environmental challenges but also empowered the community with practical skills and new economic opportunities, contributing to long-term sustainability and inclusion. |
What challenges did you address and how were they addressed?
| The project faced several challenges, including low initial awareness of the circular economy, limited community participation, and a lack of technical skills in recycling-based production. Many residents were unfamiliar with the concept of turning waste into economic value, and some were hesitant to engage in new activities. To address this, the team conducted targeted awareness campaigns and interactive workshops to build understanding and interest. |