Community-Based Organic Waste Management: Observations from Canang Waste Processing at TPS3R Sire Angen Asri, Bali

Abstract

Bali continues to face increasing challenges in managing organic waste, particularly ceremonial waste generated from daily Hindu offerings such as canang sari. As one of the major sources of biodegradable waste, canang residues require effective community-based management to reduce environmental impacts and support sustainable waste practices. This study aims to describe the operational process and processing capacity of canang waste management at TPS3R Sire Angen Asri, Serangan Village, Denpasar Selatan, Bali. Field observations were conducted on 30 June 2026 as part of the International Community Service (ICS) 2026 program. Data were collected through direct observation, informal interviews with facility staff, visual documentation, and analyzed using descriptive qualitative analysis. The findings identified five sequential processing stages, including sorting, shredding, composting, maturation, and sieving to produce organic compost. According to information provided by facility staff, the facility receives approximately 5 tonnes of organic ceremonial waste daily, while only around 2 tonnes can be processed into compost, leaving an estimated 3 tonnes unprocessed. These findings indicate a processing capacity gap that may limit the effectiveness of community-based organic waste management. The study contributes practical insights into the operational challenges faced by village-scale waste processing facilities and highlights opportunities to strengthen community-based waste management through improved infrastructure, digital monitoring systems, and circular economy approaches. These efforts may also support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).