Community-Based Waste Management for Village Environmental Sustainability in Urban Semarang

Abstract

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, residents of Mayangsari Village actively worked to improve environmental quality, particularly by addressing waste management issues. These efforts also supported the development of river-based tourism, a newly introduced initiative in the area. This study analyzes how community-based waste management contributes to enhancing environmental quality in Mayangsari Village. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation involving residents of Kampung Mayangsari, Kalipancur Village, in Semarang City. Using a qualitative descriptive analysis, the study showed that initial public awareness of proper waste disposal was low. Many residents disposed of garbage directly into the river, and waste was managed individually using outdated, informal methods. However, as environmental initiatives led by the village government took hold, especially those linked to optimizing the river for tourism, community awareness began to grow. Community-based waste management is well-developed through the education process carried out by the Rukun Warga (RT) and Rukun Tetangga (RT) institutions and several local social groups. Key steps included providing trash bins for each household, establishing waste disposal regulations and sanctions, and introducing waste sorting and recycling. These efforts have not only improved cleanliness but also turned recycling materials into valuable goods.