Processing Waste, Empowering People

KOMPAS/WILIBRORDUS MEGANDIKA WICAKSONO

Cocos Trisada

Uncontrolled growth of water hyacinths can stagnate the flow of rivers and contribute to flooding. While broom makers usually discard or burn coconut fiber waste, in the hands of Cocos Trisada, 52, the waste material is processed into something productive that helps empower others.

With his business and experience in designing handicraft, Cocos explores and develops the typical handicraft potential of Banyumas, Central Java. Cocos wants Banyumas to be known not only as the City of Mendoan (thinly sliced tempeh coated in rice flour and fried lightly), but also for its diverse and high-quality handicrafts, ranging from embroidery to handcrafted items made from natural materials.