Recyclepay Apps: Digital Platform Innovation to Support Green Economy and Sustainable Waste Management in North Sumatra

Abstract

Waste problems in North Sumatra continue to increase, causing negative impacts on the economy, environment, and public health. Based on data from the National Waste Management Information System, by 2024, the volume of waste generated in North Sumatra will reach approximately 2,864.06 tons per day, with an annual amount of 1,045,381.35 tons. Therefore, an innovative technology- based solution is needed that can facilitate sustainable transactions and increase community participation in environmental conservation. This research proposes a digital platform designed to integrate the concept of green economy with the circular economy system, to support waste reduction, resource optimization, and increase the economic value of goods that still have potential uses. Using a literature study approach, secondary data analysis, and a survey of potential users, this research resulted in the design of a RecyclePay model that includes a collection mechanism, exchange system, and processing of waste into value-added products, which is expected to increase public awareness, reduce waste, create economic benefits and support the achievement of SDGs, especially in sustainable consumption and production (SDG 12), inclusive economy (SDG 8), and environmental protection (SDG 13). The results show that RecyclePay can be an innovative solution in overcoming waste management problems, and has the potential to become a major catalyst in encouraging a green economy in North Sumatra, but its effective implementation requires infrastructure readiness, supporting regulations, and collaboration between the government, private sector, and communities to ensure a sustainable positive impact in building a green economy in North Sumatra.