Awareness Campaign on Minimizing Single-Use Packaging to Support Sustainable Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Mangunsari, Gunung Pati

Abstract

The improper management of single-use packaging containers poses considerable environmental risks, particularly within the context of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that still rely heavily on plastic and Styrofoam-based materials. In Kelurahan Mangunsari, Kecamatan Gunung Pati, the prevalence of single-use packaging among households and local business actors remains high, primarily due to cost-efficiency and practicality considerations. In response to this issue, the present outreach initiative was designed to provide comprehensive education on the environmental implications of disposable packaging, while simultaneously introducing sustainable and eco-friendly packaging alternatives suitable for local MSME implementation. Through an integrative approach combining educational, demonstrative, and participatory methods, the program effectively enhanced the environmental awareness of local citizen concerning the importance of sustainable packaging practices. Evaluation results indicate that 78% of participants expressed a commitment to begin reducing their reliance on single-use packaging and to adopt more environmentally responsible alternatives.