Evaluating Waste Bank Effectiveness in Batam City: Linking Participation Gaps with Strategic Management

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Waste Bank as a community-based waste management instrument in Batam Kota District, focusing on the gap between knowledge and participation as well as the formulation of strengthening strategies through SWOT analysis. The study employs a mixed-methods approach with data collection via a questionnaire administered to 100 respondents, in-depth interviews, and field observations The quantitative component involved a structured questionnaire administered to active Waste Bank customers. The qualitative phase included interviews with Waste Bank managers, representatives of the Batam City Environmental Agency (DLH), and relevant stakeholders involved in Waste Bank management. The results indicate that while the community’s level of knowledge is relatively high (68%), actual participation in waste sorting remains low (35%). Operationally, waste management still faces limitations, particularly in the processing of organic waste most of which still ends up at the Final Processing Site (FPS)—as well as the dependence of Unit Waste Banks on the Main Waste Bank for the management of non-organic waste. The SWOT analysis results indicate that Waste Bank management falls into Quadrant I (SO strategy), suggesting development opportunities through institutional strengthening, enhanced processing capacity, and expanded cross-sectoral partnerships. This study confirms that the effectiveness of Waste Banks is determined not only by the level of community participation but also by institutional capacity and adaptive partnership networks in supporting a sustainable waste management system.