Empowering Local Communities through Upcycling Used Buckets into Waste Bins: A 3R-Based Environmental Awareness Initiative in Neglasari Village

Abstract

Household waste remains a persistent environmental challenge in rural communities, primarily driven by a lack of sorting habits and limited skills in repurposing inorganic waste. This community engagement initiative aimed to enhance environmental awareness and practical skills among residents in Neglasari Village by implementing a 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) strategy—specifically upcycling discarded plastic buckets into functional and aesthetic waste bins. The implementation method encompassed a three-stage participatory approach: preparation (needs assessment and material gathering), execution (interactive workshops, live demonstrations, and hands-on painting and crafting), and evaluation. The results demonstrated a significant increase in community understanding regarding solid waste management and the 3R principles. Furthermore, participants successfully demonstrated autonomy in turning household waste into durable, visually appealing trash bins placed in key public areas, including local school grounds. Overall, this initiative successfully fostered environmental stewardship, encouraged creative upcycling behavior, and established a scalable model for community-based waste management.