Student empowerment in waste management to enhance community environmental awareness

Abstract

Effective waste management is a pressing challenge for developing countries, particularly as rapid urbanization and economic growth lead to increased waste generation. This study examines the application of Vahan Yengidunyan's Territorial Management Theory to enhance environmental cleanliness at Riyadhul Jannah Islamic Boarding School in Babakan, Ciseeng, Bogor. The theory focuses on the strategic planning and organization of space to sustain social order and optimize resource use within a territory. At Riyadhul Jannah, this approach is used to involve students in managing waste through a structured system of territorial division, task scheduling, assignment of responsibilities, monitoring, and rewards and sanctions. The study highlights the need for effective waste management practices, including waste segregation, reduction, and recycling, and the importance of student education and participation in these practices. The implementation of Yengidunyan's theory at the pesantren aims to foster environmental responsibility and sustainability among students, leading to a cleaner and more organized school environment. The results demonstrate that integrating students into the waste management process not only improves operational efficiency but also educates them about sustainable practices, contributing to both local and global environmental conservation efforts. The outcome of participatory monitoring indicate that 60% of students consistently disposed of waste in its proper place. The awareness of environmental cleanliness among students has increased about 80% based on survey results.