On June 3–4, 2025, an innovative and community-focused workshop took place in two locations—Bandung City and Lembang (Bandung Regency)—to enhance waste management awareness and promote sustainable practices using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology. The workshop titled “Empowering Bandung: Enhancing Waste Management Awareness through Black Soldier Fly Technology” was organised by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) in collaboration with PT Ngadaur Bakti Solusi. The two-day event welcomed 150 participants from diverse stakeholder groups consisting of community members, NGOs, government agencies, private businesses and educational institutions.

The workshop was supported by the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA)-Asia and the International Science Council Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific (ISC RFP-AP), through the Grassroots Science Advice Promotion Awards 2024 program, awarded to Dr. Gina Aliya Sopha. The workshop was also mentored by Dr Silap Boupha, esteemed Steering Committee member of INGSA-Asia.

The workshop was developed in response to the waste management crisis in Bandung, which has been exacerbated by the 2023 Sarimukti landfill fire and ongoing pollution in the Citarum River. The program focused on both education and practical engagement, targeting issues of low public awareness and waste segregation practices that hinder effective recycling and composting efforts. Activities included a pre-workshop questionnaire, two expert-led lectures on general waste management and BSF technology, interactive videos on waste separation and inorganic waste handling, and a hands-on demonstration of BSF technology. Participants, consisting of community members, NGOs, government agencies, private businesses and educational institutions, were divided into small groups, engaged in practical exercises with prizes awarded to the best teams—an approach that not only deepened engagement but also encouraged real-world application.

In addition to the educational components, participants received workshop booklets, goody bags, and certificates. The workshop featured networking opportunities and a moderated discussion, laying a foundation for collaborative efforts among stakeholders.