Turning Waste into Income Source, Kuala Tanjung Residents Manage Up to 2 Tonnes per Day
Jakarta (ANTARA) — Waste remains a major challenge in Indonesia. Much of the waste generated daily is not managed properly, leading to various environmental and health issues. Amid this situation, an initiative by residents in Kuala Tanjung Village, North Sumatra, demonstrates that waste can also become a source of economic benefit.
Didi Saputra (41), familiarly known as Untung, has become the driving force behind waste management in his village. Since 2021, he and the villagers have begun processing organic waste using maggot or larvae of the Black Soldier Fly.
From this effort, the Sari Larva Berdaya (SLB) group was formed, which later developed into Bank Sampah Berseri in 2024.
“Initially, we learned to manage waste with maggot. Over time, we realised this is not just about cleanliness, but it can also become a source of income,” said Didi.
Currently, the group manages around 1 to 2 tonnes of waste every day. The waste is collected from company catering waste and nearby household residents.
The results of the processing are diverse. Maggot is used as feed for livestock such as chickens, ducks, and fish. In addition, wooden pallet waste is processed into tables and chairs, while paper waste and banana fronds are turned into recycled paper and paper bags that have market value.
Not only does it impact the environment, this activity also opens up new job opportunities for residents. As many as 17 people are now actively involved in the waste management.
Didi specifically involves vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities and school dropouts.
“There are those who are blind, and others with other limitations, but they can still work, such as sorting waste or making recycled products,” he said.
In addition, the group also helps school dropouts to take the Paket B and C exams so they can obtain diplomas.
Economic benefits are also felt through the Bank Sampah Berseri savings system. Residents can exchange inorganic waste such as plastic and paper for savings balance.
Interestingly, ahead of major holidays like Eid, the balance can be cashed out in the form of grocery packages at prices around 30 percent cheaper than market rates.
This effort is also supported by PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium (INALUM) as part of MIND ID. Support is provided in the form of training and facilities, enabling the community to develop waste management independently.
This programme is part of social innovation that contributes to the achievement of the PROPER Gold award received by the company.
Nevertheless, Didi assesses that their journey is still long. In the future, he hopes to have a waste transport fleet so that the service reach can be expanded to more households.
“We continue to learn and move forward. From waste, we can be independent and help each other,” he said.