Balikpapan - Community based waste management requires a system that is not only socially active but also administratively well-organized. Responding to this need, a student of Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) introduced a digital innovation through a community service program entitled “Improving the Efficiency and Transparency of Waste Management Through a Web-Based Information System: A Case Study of Bank Sampah Sekar.”

The program was initiated by Cinta Putri Juliana, a 2022 student of the Digital Business Study Program at ITK, under the supervision of Farida Nur Hayati, S.Si., M.Stat. The activity was carried out at Bank Sampah Sekar, Pondok Karya Agung Housing Complex RT 18, South Balikpapan, with the main focus of helping modernize waste transaction records to make them more efficient, transparent, and easier to monitor.

Previously, customer transaction records at Bank Sampah Sekar were still managed manually. This condition had the potential to create several challenges, ranging from time-consuming recording processes and risks of data errors to difficulties in tracking transaction histories. Through this program, Cinta developed SekarCycle, a web-based information system designed to support more organized management of customer data and waste bank transactions.

The program began with field observations and identification of the partner’s needs. Based on this process, the student then designed and implemented a digital system tailored to the needs of Bank Sampah Sekar. Beyond system development, the program also included the preparation of user guidelines, user assistance, and the development of social media accounts as a platform for environmental education.

Through SekarCycle, the process of recording waste transactions is expected to become faster, more organized, and easier to access. This system also serves as an initial step in strengthening transparency between waste bank managers and customers, thereby increasing public trust in community-based waste management.

In addition to the technological aspect, the program also emphasized the importance of digital education and community participation. Social media was used as a space to disseminate information, raise environmental awareness, and encourage residents to become more actively involved in waste management activities. Thematic workshops were also part of the effort to strengthen residents’ understanding of sustainable waste management.

Cinta stated that the entire series of activities ran well thanks to the enthusiasm and support of various parties. The support from residents, the supervising lecturer, and fellow team members became an important factor in the successful implementation of the program.

Through the SekarCycle innovation, ITK once again demonstrates its role as a university that not only focuses on the development of science and technology, but also delivers real solutions for society. This initiative aligns with the spirit of ITK Berdampak, encouraging students to contribute to addressing community needs through a digital, collaborative, and sustainable approach.