Women's empowerment in coastal areas: waste management based on circular economy paradigm (a case study on Pasaran Island, Bandar Lampung)

Abstract

Coastal areas have potential resources and are projected as tourist attractions because they are the meeting point between land and sea. However, this potential is threatened by pollution and damage in coastal and marine areas originating from human activities. Marine debris causes marine pollution, damages marine ecosystems and coastal areas, and can even endanger human health. In 2021, approximately 2,864 kg of waste accumulated on Pasaran Island, of which more than 64% was residual and low-value waste. The circular economy is a new paradigm that is widely adopted in sustainability-based waste management in Indonesia. The role of the community in the implementation of the circular economy is very important, one of which is through women's empowerment. This research aims to describe the importance of women's role in waste management through empowerment schemes. This research uses a qualitative approach through observation, interviews, and literature studies to obtain information. The results showed that through the empowerment of women and the implementation of the circular economy in Pasaran Island, more than 29,000 kg of household waste could be reduced, new employment alternatives could be created, and the community in Pasaran Island increased its awareness of managing household waste.