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Plastic waste management in rural areas, particularly in tourism villages, remains an environmental challenge that requires sustainable solutions. Negeri Tongging Village, as a tourism area around Lake Toba, has experienced an increase in household plastic waste that has not been managed optimally, potentially affecting environmental quality and community well-being. This community service activity aimed to enhance community awareness and capacity in plastic waste management through the implementation of a circular economy approach based on a waste exchange program and ecobrick production. A participatory approach was employed by actively involving the community in all stages of the activity, including socialization, program implementation, and evaluation. The program was carried out during the 2025 Community Service Program of Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, consisting of circular economy socialization, collection of plastic waste through an exchange scheme with basic necessities, training on ecobrick production, and the provision of supporting facilities for environmental cleanliness. The results indicate an increase in community participation and environmental awareness, a reduction in improperly disposed plastic waste, and an improvement in community skills in processing plastic waste into useful products. In addition, the activity strengthened mutual cooperation and environmental responsibility among community members. In conclusion, the application of a circular economy approach through ecobrick-based activities can serve as an effective alternative solution for plastic waste management while simultaneously supporting sustainable community empowerment in rural tourism areas.

Economic empowerment of rural communities through the strengthening of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is a crucial pillar in achieving national economic independence. One of the fundamental obstacles faced by MSMEs in rural areas is financial exclusion due to low digital literacy and dependence on conventional cash transaction systems. The Community Service Program (KKN) of students from the State Islamic University of North Sumatra (UIN SU) in Pematang Tengah Village was designed to bridge this gap by optimizing the Indonesian Standard Quick Response Code (QRIS). Through an intensive participatory mentoring approach, students acted as agents of digital transformation who educated, trained, and facilitated 10 local MSME actors in adopting non-cash payment technology. The results of the program show a significant shift from digital skepticism to digital trust. The implementation of QRIS has been proven to increase operational efficiency, financial management accuracy, and strengthen the image of business modernity in the eyes of consumers. This article emphasizes that the role of students is not merely as information deliverers, but as catalysts of social capital that is crucial for the sustainability of digitalization at the village level.

This study examines the utilization of social media in improving the competitiveness of cassava chips and lidah manis SMEs in Pematang Serai Village, Tanjung Pura District, Langkat Regency, North Sumatra Province. The rapid development of information technology has encouraged SMEs to shift from conventional marketing methods to more effective and efficient digital marketing practices. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through field observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving SME actors. The results indicate that the use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram is able to expand market reach, increase product visibility, and strengthen relationships between business owners and consumers. Attractive promotional content, consistency in posting, and responsive communication are proven to influence consumer buying interest and trust. However, SMEs still face challenges, including limited digital literacy, time management constraints, and the lack of structured marketing strategies. Therefore, continuous training and assistance are needed so that SMEs can optimize the use of social media more effectively. This study is expected to serve as a reference for the development of digital-based SMEs in rural areas.