TRANSFORMATION OF PILGRIMAGE FLOWER WASTE INTO ORGANIC INCENSE A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MODEL BASED ON A CIRCULAR ECONOMY AT THE LOCAL LEVEL

Abstract

The thick tradition of pilgrimage in Banjarmasin produces a significant volume of organic flower waste that contributes to the accumulation of waste in landfills (South Kalimantan Provincial Communication and Information Service, 2023; Maylana, 2024). In response to this environmental problem, this research aims to design innovative solutions based on the Circular Economy (CE). This initiative aims to eliminate waste through restorative design (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2013).  The method used is Action Research (Heron, 1998) to implement the principles of Circular Economy at the local community level, which involves (1) training local communities in waste sorting and (2) developing a business model of organic incense products with upcycling techniques. This implementation simultaneously emphasizes the creation of social and environmental values.  This study introduces a novel Community-Based Action Research (CBAR) framework that integrates spiritual values with Circular Economy (CE) principles to upcycle pilgrimage flower waste into value-added products. The 'Mandupa' model exemplifies waste valorization by closing the biological loop; it transforms post-pilgrimage flower waste into a raw material premix, creating a local value loop that minimizes dependence on external raw materials. The Mandupa initiative demonstrates preliminary feasibility for localized waste transformation. Initial data indicates potential reductions in organic waste at the source and provides a foundational model for community-led economic resilience. Ultimately, Mandupa proves that CE principles can be effectively localized, creating a synergy between innovation, community empowerment, and environmental responsibility for a sustainable future in Banjarmasin.