Increasing Public Knowledge about Household Waste Management in RW 07, Babakan Asih Village, Bojongloa Kaler District, Bandung

Abstract

Background: Background: Ineffective household waste management is one of the primary causes of environmental problems, such as soil and water pollution. Many communities lack an understanding of the importance of proper waste management, including the separation of organic and inorganic waste. This highlights the need for sustainable educational interventions to raise awareness and improve skills in managing household waste. Objective: This activity aims to enhance community knowledge of household waste management through education and practical training to support environmentally friendly behavior. Method: This community service activity was conducted using a participatory approach in Village X, District Y. Methods included socialization, interactive discussions, and hands-on waste management practices, such as separating organic and inorganic waste and creating simple compost. The participants comprised 50 households selected based on their active involvement in the community. Results: The activity demonstrated a significant improvement in participants' knowledge levels, as measured through pretest and posttest evaluations. The average knowledge score increased from 58% (fair category) in the pretest to 85% (good category) in the posttest. Additionally, 90% of participants successfully practiced waste separation, and 75% successfully created simple compost. Conclusion: This community service activity effectively improved knowledge and skills in household waste management. The results indicate that a participatory educational approach is effective in encouraging behavioral changes toward better waste management. Similar programs are recommended to be implemented sustainably to support environmental preservation.