Analysis of the Effectiveness of Waste Management at TPS3R Mekarwangi in Realizing a Sustainable City: A Case Study on Transforming Waste into Economically Valuable Products

Abstract

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of waste management by the Waste Processing Facility for Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (TPS3R) Mekarwangi (Mekar Mandiri) in supporting the realization of a sustainable city and in utilizing waste as economically valuable products, using the Triple Bottom Line framework, a management theory by J. Elkington, which encompasses environmental (planet), social (people), and economic (profit) dimensions. The research employs a mixed-method approach, focusing on semi-structured interviews with TPS3R staff, with variables determined according to environmental, social, and economic aspects. Data from the interviews were triangulated with information from Environmental Agency (DLH) officials, representatives of the neighborhood units (Rukun Warga) served, surrounding environmental documentation, and direct observations. The study also considers government regulations and standards, particularly Permen PU No. 03/PRT/M/2013, as a reference for assessing compliance and operational standards. The triangulated results were scored using a Likert scale of 1–4 to evaluate effectiveness. The findings reveal that waste management at TPS3R Mekarwangi is moderately effective in supporting the development of a sustainable city. In the environmental dimension, effectiveness is demonstrated through improvements in management quality and reductions in pollution. In the social dimension, effectiveness is reflected in the increase of service users and the creation of employment opportunities, although community participation in waste segregation remains limited. In the economic dimension, operational sustainability is maintained through community contributions, although external support and the development of recycled products remain suboptimal. This study highlights the relevance of applying the Triple Bottom Line concept, alongside government standards, in evaluating the effectiveness of community-based waste management oriented toward achieving sustainable cities.