The management of organic waste, which is still largely focused on disposal at landfills, remains a common challenge in the cleaning service industry. This practice not only increases operational costs but also overlooks the potential of organic waste as a valuable resource. A similar situation is experienced by PT Makmur Jaya Sragen, where daily cleaning service activities generate a considerable amount of organic waste, including leaves, grass, and other biodegradable materials.
In response to this challenge, the Information System for Sustainable Development (ISSaD) Research Group of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) conducted a community service program in 25 Jun 2026 at PT Makmur Jaya Sragen. The project team consisted of Slamet Kurniawan Fahrurozi, Cucuk Wawan Budiyanto, Febri Liantoni, Yusfia Hafid Aristyagama, Puspanda Hatta, Nurcahya Pradana Taufik Prakisya, Rosihan Ari Yuana, and Vearen Dika Sofirudin, with the participation of two undergraduate students from the Informatics and Computer Engineering Education (PTIK) Study Program as part of a research-based learning initiative.
The program focused on implementing an Internet of Things (IoT)-based composting system equipped with a temperature sensor to monitor the composting process. The system enables real-time observation of the decomposition process, allowing waste management decisions to be based on reliable data rather than estimation. Through continuous monitoring, the composting process becomes more efficient, measurable, and easier to manage.
The implementation began with a field survey and needs assessment, followed by an awareness session introducing technology-based organic waste management. The next stage involved technical training attended by approximately 20 cleaning service personnel. Participants received both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in operating the IoT-based composting system. The activities included lectures, interactive discussions, practical demonstrations, and on-site mentoring to ensure the sustainability of the system’s implementation.
The results demonstrated that participants were able to understand the concept of data-driven composting and independently operate the IoT-based composting system. The program successfully transformed the company’s organic waste management practices from simple disposal at landfills into the production of compost that can be reused for environmental and economic benefits. Furthermore, the implementation has the potential to reduce waste management costs while improving the efficiency of monitoring the composting process through digital technology.
This community service initiative also contributes to the achievement of Universitas Sebelas Maret’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), particularly KPI 93, which measures the percentage of organic, inorganic, and hazardous waste (B3) that is properly processed (green waste), by increasing the proportion of organic waste processed into compost. In addition, the program supports KPI 98, which measures the amount of organic waste generated (food waste, leaves, and wood), by promoting systematic recording and sustainable management of organic waste as feedstock for compost production.
More broadly, the program contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It directly supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting sustainable waste management practices and circular economy principles. The application of IoT technology also advances SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through the adoption of digital innovation in environmental management. Furthermore, by diverting organic waste from landfills, the initiative contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action through the potential reduction of greenhouse gas emissions generated from organic waste decomposition. Through collaboration between academia and industry, the ISSaD Research Group of Universitas Sebelas Maret hopes that this IoT-based composting model can be replicated across various sectors. By integrating digital technology with sustainable waste management practices, the initiative offers not only a practical technical solution but also promotes a data-driven, environmentally responsible, and economically beneficial approach to organic waste management.