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.
