The Role of Community Service Students in Transforming Plastic Bottle Waste into Pencil Holders for Children in Ajuen Jeumpet Village

Abstract

Waste management is a growing global issue driven by population growth and human activities. In Indonesia, waste generation reaches tens of millions of tons annually, dominated by household and plastic waste that is difficult to decompose and poses long-term environmental risks. This problem is also evident in Aceh Province, particularly in Aceh Besar Regency, where increasing waste volumes are not matched by adequate infrastructure or public awareness. Unsustainable practices such as open burning and improper disposal are still common. At the local level, including Jeumpet Ajuen Village, plastic waste accumulation and limited awareness among children regarding waste utilisation remain significant challenges. Therefore, a participatory educational approach through the Community Service Program (CSP) was implemented. This program applied interactive education and hands-on practice by transforming plastic bottles into functional products, such as pencil holders, using the 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). The program involved 25 children and demonstrated positive outcomes, with most participants successfully creating useful products and showing improved awareness. This activity aims to enhance children’s knowledge, creativity, and environmental responsibility from an early age, while reducing improper waste disposal practices.