ZERO WASTE CONCEPT COUNSELING AS AN EFFORT TO REDUCE PLASTIC WASTE AND FLOOD DISASTER MITIGATION FOR STUDENTS OF STATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1 WAY DADI

Abstract

Waste accumulation is one of the major environmental issues faced by society today, which also significantly contributes to climate change and natural disasters such as floods. Through the zero waste concept, plastic waste reduction can be pursued using a sustainable 3R approach by transforming waste into crafts. However, understanding of the Zero Waste concept remains limited, particularly among young children who play a crucial role in shaping environmentally friendly behavior. Therefore, this community service activity aims to provide education on the zero waste concept as a step toward reducing plastic waste and mitigating flood risk at SDN 1 Way Dadi, targeting 5th-grade students with a total of 29 participants. The main challenge faced today is the low awareness regarding waste reduction and the persistent habit of littering. The method used in this activity involves an interactive approach through discussions and hands-on practice in waste sorting and reusing discarded items. The expected outcome of this activity is an increased understanding among students about the importance of the zero waste concept, thereby reducing waste production such as single-use plastics and household waste as an effort to prevent waste buildup that contributes to climate change and floods. Furthermore, through this educational initiative, students are expected to become agents of change who inspire their school and families to be more environmentally conscious and to help safeguard the sustainability of the planet in the future.