From Waste to Welfare: Application of Simple Technology for Environmental Management and Economic Empowerment in Purwosari, Nagan Raya

Abstract

Background: The program From Waste to Welfare was initiated as part of the PPK Ormawa HIMAKESMAS FIK Universitas Teuku Umar to address environmental and economic challenges in Purwosari Village, Nagan Raya. This initiative integrates simple waste management technologies such as composting, biopores, and eco-enzyme processing to transform organic waste into valuable products. The program also aims to increase community awareness and participation in sustainable waste management and local entrepreneurship. Contribution: The activity contributes to strengthening community capacity in applying eco-friendly technologies and developing productive economic activities. It fosters behavioral change toward sustainable waste practices and promotes local empowerment through health and entrepreneurship initiatives. Method: This study used a pre-test and post-test questionnaire distributed to community participants (n = 50) during the program launching and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). Data were analyzed descriptively to measure changes in knowledge, attitudes, and participation levels before and after the intervention. Results: The results show a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge (mean increase from 67.3 to 89.2), attitudes (from 70.4 to 91.6), and active participation in waste management activities (from 63.1 to 88.7). Respondents also expressed greater motivation to apply eco-enzyme and composting techniques at home and participate in community waste programs. Conclusion: The findings indicate that the introduction of simple and applicable environmental technologies effectively enhances community literacy, engagement, and economic resilience. The From Waste to Welfare model can be replicated in other rural areas to promote sustainable waste management and local economic empowerment.