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Seren Village has abundant organic waste potential, particularly banana peel waste generated from banana-processing MSME activities and wood ash resulting from household firewood combustion. To date, this waste has not been optimally utilized and is often discarded, thereby posing potential environmental problems. This study aims to process banana peel waste and wood ash into an innovative, environmentally friendly shoe polish made from natural materials, while also enhancing the economic value and welfare of the community. The research employed a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving the women’s Family Welfare Empowerment Group (PKK) of Seren Village as the target participants. The shoe polish production process includes drying and grinding banana peels, mixing them with a wood ash solution that functions as a natural coloring agent, adding supporting materials, and heating the mixture until a ready-to-use shoe polish is obtained. The results indicate that the shoe polish produced from banana peels and wood ash has a solid texture, is slightly coarse, non-glossy, and has a relatively fast drying time of approximately one minute. In addition, the product shows good resistance to water splashes and does not damage the surface of shoes. The use of natural ingredients makes this shoe polish safer for health. The utilization of this waste has the potential to support MSME development, reduce environmental pollution, and sustainably improve the welfare of the Seren Village community.

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.