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Optimizing Community-Based Waste Management: A Business Model Canvas Approach to Waste Bank Sustainability
Summary
Researchers studied a community "waste bank" program in Indonesia—where locals sort and sell recyclables—and found it's helping keep trash out of landfills and oceans, but struggles with low community participation and unstable funding. With some fixes, like better partnerships and using apps to make recycling easier, these programs could better prevent plastic pollution in waterways, which matters since ocean plastic breaks down into microplastics that end up in our food and water supply. This is a case study of one local program, so the specific findings may not apply everywhere, but the strategies offer a blueprint for making grassroots recycling efforts more sustainable.
Urban waste management in Indonesia is becoming increasingly challenging due to rapid population growth and changing consumption patterns that generate larger volumes of waste. One alternative approach that supports the principles of the circular economy is community-based waste management through waste banks. This study aims to analyze the business model of the Karya Mandiri New Waste Bank in Tebing Tinggi City using the Business Model Canvas (BMC) framework and to formulate development strategies for its sustainability. This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach with data collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. Findings indicate that the waste bank has implemented essential waste management activities, including collection, sorting, and environmental education programs. However, several obstacles still hinder its operational sustainability, such as limited community participation, inadequate resources, and unstable revenue streams. BMC analysis indicates that key elements, particularly the value proposition, channels, and revenue streams, have not been effectively optimized. Therefore, strategic improvements are needed through strengthened partnerships, increased community participation, diversification of revenue sources, and the utilization of digital technology. Optimizing the waste bank business model can help reduce landfill leakage, prevent marine plastic pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12 and 14 through sustainable waste management practices.