UTILIZATION OF BOTTLE CAPS WASTE BY THE YOUTH CHURCH COMMUNITY OF PAROKI BUNDA MARIA RATU SUKATANI IN HELPING THE ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT, AND COMMUNITIY AWARENESS

Abstract

Plastic waste has become a global issue that requires serious attention, including in Indonesia, where plastic waste will reach 18.71% of the total national waste production by 2023. This study aims to demonstrate the utilization of plastic bottle cap waste as an economic resource through a bag-making workshop program in the Catholic Youth Community (OMK). The method used is Constructive Participatory Methodology, which involves active participation of the community as co-researchers in the process of data collection and analysis. The activity was carried out through a bag-making workshop from plastic bottle caps attended by the OMK community on December 2, 2024. Data was collected through participatory observation, group discussion, and documentation of the product-making process. The results showed that the workshop successfully created reusable bag products from plastic bottle cap waste using cable ties as connectors. The program resulted in positive impacts on four aspects: environment (reducing plastic waste and increasing recycling awareness), community (developing creativity and building relationships among participants), economy (providing entrepreneurial training and helping scavengers), and church (reactivating youth and carrying out Diakonia mission). The research concluded that plastic waste utilization can be a sustainable solution that integrates environmental, social, and economic aspects. The workshop proved that community-based initiatives can be a catalyst for positive change in addressing plastic waste issues. The research recommends the development of similar programs in a sustainable manner by involving wider participation from the church community and society.