Transforming Waste into Value through a Circular Economy Approach: Mini Low-Carbon Feed Plant and Community Waste Bank Empowerment for Used Cooking Oil Utilization in Mekarmukti Village, Bekasi Regency

Abstract

Bekasi Regency faces significant challenges in urban waste management due to rising waste generation volumes reaching approximately 2,200 to 2,800 tons per day and the limited implementation of community-based waste management. This condition highlights the need for a circular economy approach that not only reduces waste but also creates added value for local communities. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Desa Raharja Program as a community empowerment model based on the circular economy through organic waste management using the Mini Plant Low-Carbon Feed with Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae and the utilization of used cooking oil through community-based waste banks. This study employed a descriptive qualitative method with a participatory approach, including problem identification, capacity building, community assistance, and program evaluation. The findings indicate that the program successfully established an integrated waste management system by combining waste reduction, value-added product development, and community institutional strengthening. The novelty of this study lies in the integration of organic waste treatment and used cooking oil utilization into a single circular value chain linking environmental management, agriculture, aquaculture, livestock farming, and community-based entrepreneurship. This model contributes to reducing environmental pollution, strengthening community capacity and waste bank institutions, and creating sustainable economic opportunities. The evaluation results also indicate that the program was well accepted by the community and has strong potential to be replicated in other regions as a sustainable community empowerment model based on the circular economy.