From Waste to Growth: A Circular Economy Initiative of Trieste Café for Environmental Sustainability and Community Greening

Authors: Jacqueline M. Cenizal, Florence Kristina M. Jimenez
Journal: The Finest: Journal of University of Mindanao's Best Practices | Vol. 1, No. 1, July 2026
DOI:
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Abstract

The “From Waste to Growth Initiative” is a sustainability-driven Green Campus best practice implemented by Trieste Café that demonstrates how a university food service operation can transform everyday waste into valuable environmental resources through the principles of the circular economy. Recognizing the environmental challenges posed by organic and recyclable waste generated in daily café operations, the initiative repurposes lemon seeds, coffee grounds, eggshells, used coffee pouches, milk cartons, and PET soda bottles into seedlings, organic fertilizers, soil conditioners, and eco- friendly planting containers. This innovative approach which started last March 2025 aimed to minimize waste, promote responsible resource use, and support biodiversity conservation while reducing dependence on commercial planting materials and synthetic fertilizers.

A distinguishing feature of the initiative is the active involvement of On-the-Job Training (OJT) students, CHE Faculty, and Trieste Café` custodians in waste segregation, seed propagation, preparation of recycled containers, plant maintenance, and community greening activities. These experiential learning opportunities strengthen environmental awareness, sustainability competencies, and leadership among hospitality professionals. The propagated seedlings were distributed to students, faculty and staff and subsequently planted at Loleng's Mountain Spring Resort, extending the project's impact beyond the university through ecological restoration and strengthened community partnerships. By integrating environmental stewardship with education and community engagement, the initiative contributes to the university's sustainaibility goals and advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The project serves as a practical, low-cost, and highly replicable model for sustainable waste management in educational institutions and small-scale food service enterprises.

Keywords

Circular Economy, Sustainability, Community Greening