In the Hands of Housewives, Inorganic Waste Becomes a Source of Income

In Jakarta, Indonesia, a waste bank named Bank Sampah Persatuan Kreasi 308 is transforming inorganic waste into a source of income, particularly for housewives in the Pondok Kelapa area.

The initiative, which began in 2019, empowers local residents, primarily women, to upcycle materials like plastic bags and used packaging into various handcrafted products. These items, ranging from table decorations and lamps to ecobricks and costumes, are sold for prices between Rp25,000 and Rp400,000, depending on their complexity.

Participants learn these crafting skills organically and then share their knowledge with others in the community. The program not only helps reduce the volume of waste destined for landfills but also provides valuable income opportunities, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle.

Beyond inorganic waste, the bank also processes organic waste into compost, which is used for local greening projects. Additionally, they produce eco-enzymes that serve as liquid fertilizer, household cleaners, and plant enhancers. These processed waste products are marketed to the public as part of an ongoing campaign to reduce waste and promote the reuse of materials with remaining value.