Circular Economy Based Community Empowerment through the Eco Circle Center Programme to Strengthen Waste Management and Microenterprises in Bengkulu City

Abstract

Household waste management and limited community enterprise capacity require mentoring that connects institutional development, skills, and operational infrastructure. This article describes the implementation of the Eco Circle Center Programme with TPS3R Sumber Jaya and the Serawai Jaya microenterprise group in Bengkulu City. The programme adopted a participatory approach comprising needs mapping, joint planning, institutional strengthening, training, infrastructure provision, mentoring, and evaluation. Findings were presented descriptively using observations, partner discussions, and programme documentation. TPS3R reportedly served two neighbourhood units with seven active members, diverted approximately 1–1.5 tonnes of waste per week from landfill, handled approximately 100 kg of plastic waste per week, and produced approximately 100 kg of compost per week. The microenterprise group had nine active members, produced approximately 250 packages per week, developed 16 food product varieties, and reported monthly turnover of approximately IDR 7,000,000. Reported social changes included source separation, clearer organisational roles, and coordination with local government. These findings indicate development in the capacities of both partner groups, but do not establish causal effectiveness because baseline data and measurement periods are insufficiently specified. Programme continuity requires consistent waste separation, infrastructure maintenance, operational and financial records, and stronger marketing for the microenterprise group.