Jakarta, IO – The Kumala Foundation Waste Bank is running an innovative program which aims to improve the economy of the local communities while empowering 14 former street kids through waste recycling process. The process begins with sorting waste that can be processed into valuable products. For example, used plastic drink bottles are collected, processed with a pressing machine, and tied into bundles weighing around 20 to 24 kilograms. Every week, around 480 kilograms of plastic bottles are sent to recycling factories with selling prices ranging from Rp7,000 to Rp7,500 per kilogram.
Apart from plastic bottles, this waste bank in North Jakarta also collects wood and block waste to be processed into valuable products such as wooden bowls and glasses which are sold in bulk at a price of Rp185,000. This program carries the management concept of ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Resale and Reshare’ (5R++) which involves the whole community.
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Former street kids involved in this program are taught to be independent and creative by using waste as basic materials, giving them the opportunity to increase their own income. Through this program, former street kids and the surrounding community can play an active role in supporting the environment sustainability and improving their economic welfare.
(IO/Faisal Ramadhan)