From poop to pulp: an integrated approach to waste management at tourist attractions Open Access

The importance of waste management in tourist areas cannot be underestimated, considering that tourist destinations are often a gathering place for many people who produce various types of waste, both organic and inorganic. If not managed properly, the waste can have a negative impact on the environment, aesthetics and the health of visitors and the surrounding community (Ferronato and Torretta, 2019). The existence of irregular waste can damage the natural attraction and beauty of tourist attractions, which in turn can reduce tourists’ interest in visiting (Tsuro, 2021). Good waste management also has an important role in supporting the principles of sustainable tourism, where waste reduction, sorting and recycling practices are top priorities to minimize environmental impacts (Perkumienė et al., 2023). Thus, the implementation of a planned and systematic waste management strategy in tourist areas is not only the responsibility of destination managers but also a collective effort to preserve the environment and maintain the reputation of tourist attractions as environmentally friendly and sustainable destinations (Giurea et al., 2018).

Integrated waste management (IWM) is a systematic approach to waste management that integrates a variety of strategies to ensure the efficient and sustainable reduction, administration and disposal of waste (Singh, 2019). The primary objective of this concept is to mitigate adverse effects on human health and the environment by employing a combination of methods that are suitable for the waste’s characteristics and local conditions (Garbarino et al., 2020).

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), IWM is defined as a reference framework for designing and implementing new waste management systems as well as for analyzing and optimizing existing systems. This approach includes various stages as displayed in the Figure 1.

1. Source reduction

Reduce the amount and toxicity of waste generated through changes in product design, production processes and consumption patterns.

1. Recycling and reuse

Collect and process recyclable materials for reuse in the manufacture of new products, thereby reducing the need for primary raw materials.

1. Treatment

Implement technology to reduce the volume and/or hazard of waste prior to final disposal, such as composting, incineration or biological processing.

1. Disposal

Placing further non-treatable waste into a safe disposal facility, such as a landfill designed to strict environmental standards.

In order to guarantee that the strategies implemented are suitable for local requirements and can adjust to evolving circumstances, the implementation of IWM necessitates the participation of a diverse array of stakeholders, such as representatives from government, industry and society (Holifield and Williams, 2019). This method also underscores the significance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation to enhance the efficacy of waste management systems (He et al., 2024). In the context of the circular economy, IWM plays an important role in promoting the efficient use of resources and reducing dependence on primary raw materials (Hemidat et al., 2022). IWM contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly system through the integration of various waste management methods (Riemens et al., 2022). In the tourism context, IWM is not only relevant as a waste management strategy but also as an important element in designing responsible and educational tourist destinations (Tsuro, 2021).

Taman Safari Bogor (https://tamansafari.com/taman-safari-bogor/) is a popular educational and conservation tourism destination in Indonesia, attracting thousands of visitors each year from both within the country and beyond. This park, located in the hilly region of Cisarua, Bogor, offers a one-of-a-kind safari experience that allows guests to engage more directly with species from all over the world in a setting created to mirror their native surroundings. With the growing number of tourism activities and the expansion of animal collections, one of the most significant challenges that arises is the effective management of waste, both visitor-generated waste, such as organic and non-organic trash and biological waste from animals, particularly the dung of large mammals like elephants. As the volume of human–nature interaction increases in a conservation-based tourist destination, a waste management system that lacks adaptability can place considerable strain on the environment. Therefore, an approach that is not only efficient but also sustainable becomes crucial in ensuring the continued ecological, educational and economic functions of a destination such as Taman Safari Bogor. This study explores how Taman Safari Bogor manages elephant dung as part of IWM’s strategy in the context of responsible tourism.

This study aims to analyze the integrated waste management (IWM) strategy implemented by Taman Safari Indonesia through the lens of elephant dung management. IWM is a scientific and systematic approach to waste handling that incorporates various methods, including source reduction, reuse, recycling, treatment and environmentally responsible final disposal. The overarching goal of this approach is to minimize the negative environmental impact of waste, improve resource efficiency and support the agenda for sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of waste separation at the source, differential processing of organic and inorganic waste and the active involvement of multiple stakeholders in the waste management cycle (Yukalang et al., 2018). At Taman Safari, some of the IWM strategies are operationalized through the recycling of elephant dung into value-added products such as recycled paper (poo paper), maggot feed and biogas. This approach is not only ecologically sound but also enhances the economic and educational values of tourism activities, aligning closely with the principles of the circular economy (Axhami et al., 2023).

The second objective is to evaluate the outcomes of converting waste into valuable products such as poo paper. These initiatives serve as tangible manifestations of circular economy principles applied within the tourism sector (Jones and Wynn, 2019). Poo paper, created from a blend of elephant dung fiber and recycled paper, presents strong potential for the development of environmentally friendly products while also serving as an educational medium for visitors, raising awareness on recycling and wildlife conservation. Concurrently, the transformation of organic waste into friendly products aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 12 and 13. Research by Hettiarachchi et al. (2018) and Kalkanis et al. (2022) underscores the economic and social significance of such practices when consistently applied under an integrated waste management framework.

A further objective of this study is to identify the contribution of the IWM model to the principles of responsible tourism, particularly through the simultaneous integration of ecological, social and economic dimensions. The conversion of elephant waste into recycled paper not only lessens environmental burdens but also strengthens visitor awareness of conservation through direct educational engagement (Ardoin et al., 2020). Moreover, the involvement of local communities in the waste supply chain and partnerships with local cooperatives reflect the embodiment of social inclusion (da Silva and Bolson, 2018). This aligns with the responsible tourism framework articulated by Yusrini et al. (2022), which emphasizes tangible benefits for local communities, environmental stewardship and enhanced visitor experiences in a sustainable manner.

Lastly, the study seeks to propose policy implications and future agendas for replicating this model in other conservation-based tourism destinations. It highlights the importance of integrating scientific approaches in waste management systems grounded in sustainability and circular economy principles. The waste management model implemented at Taman Safari could serve as a foundational reference for the development of national guidelines in similar settings, particularly in addressing organic waste from large animals. From a policy perspective, a supportive regulatory framework and fiscal incentives are necessary to ensure the adaptive replication of this system across diverse regional contexts (Kalkanis et al., 2022). Studies by Roiz et al. (2022) and Castro et al. (2023) further suggest that the success of IWM systems largely depends on cross-sectoral policy support, public education and active local community participation.

Since its establishment in 1981 on a former tea plantation operated by PT Cisarua Selatan, Taman Safari Indonesia has evolved into one of the country’s leading conservation-based tourism destinations. Situated on 55 hectares of land, the park is home to over 8,700 animals representing more than 400 species, both native to Indonesia and from abroad. Among its flagship species are the Bengal tiger, giraffe, lion, orangutan, elephant, anoa and Komodo dragon. One of the park’s most iconic attractions is the giant panda pair, Cai Tao and Hu Chun, brought from China in 2017 (https://tamansafari.com/taman-safari-bogor/). Their arrival significantly boosted public interest and helped establish the Panda Palace as one of the most visited sections of the park. In addition to these high-profile animals, the park also maintains other rare species such as the white tiger, proboscis monkey (bekantan), Javan hawk-eagle and Madagascar tortoise. Meanwhile, the most numerous animal populations in the park include various bird species and large herbivores such as deer and zebras.

Beyond its role as a recreational destination, Taman Safari fulfills a broader mission as a conservation institution committed to biodiversity preservation. This is achieved through a variety of structured educational programs and efforts to protect endangered species. Initiatives such as the night safari, conservation-themed classes and interactive animal shows offer visitors meaningful learning experiences that emphasize the importance of ecological balance and wildlife protection. These programs serve as both entertainment and education, transforming the park into a living classroom that fosters environmental consciousness (Miranda et al., 2023). Thus, Taman Safari Indonesia is not only positioned as a center for family-oriented entertainment but also functions as a hub for conservation learning and advocacy.

Taman Safari Bogor generates two primary categories of waste: (1) organic waste originating from visitors and restaurant operations and biological waste from animals, particularly the manure of large mammals like elephants (approximately 60 tons per month) and (2) non-organic waste such as plastic and metal (approximately 10 tons per month). Visitor-generated non-organic waste typically consists of solid materials such as disposable food and beverage packaging, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, paper products and food residues. According to internal estimates, each visitor produces between 0.5 and 1 kg of waste per visit, depending on their consumption patterns and activities. With thousands of visitors arriving daily, the accumulated volume of waste can reach several tens of tons each month.

Scientifically, organic waste is defined as biodegradable material derived from natural sources, including food scraps, leaves, bedding or habitat waste and animal manure (Nzeteu et al., 2022). Animal biological waste is largely composed of fecal matter from species such as elephants. The quantity of animal waste varies considerably depending on species, size and dietary habits. Large herbivores such as elephants and hippos can produce up to 50–100 kg of waste per individual per day, primarily in the form of manure and leftover vegetation (Masese et al., 2020). Organic waste of this kind is typically processed via composting, creating nutrient-rich fertilizer used for horticultural maintenance within the park grounds. The integrated management of these waste streams demands a comprehensive and sustainable system that aligns with the principles of integrated waste management (IWM), while also supporting the transformation of Taman Safari Bogor into a responsible and conservation-oriented tourism destination.

Managing waste from both of these sources presents a significant challenge for the park’s sustainability operations. Rather than viewing waste as a burden, the park repositions it as a resource. As such, Taman Safari Bogor has adopted an integrated waste management system to ensure environmental cleanliness, uphold animal welfare and enhance visitor experience. One of the most innovative strategies developed by the park involves the transformation of elephant dung into recycled paper. Elephant dung, in particular, possesses high lignocellulosic fiber content, present in the undigested plant material of elephant feces that can be processed into pulp suitable as a promising raw material for recycled paper production (Fasake and Dashora, 2020). This characteristic has been successfully utilized by Taman Safari Bogor in the development of “poo paper.” This initiative not only reduces the volume of organic waste but also transforms it into a value-added product that enhances public awareness of conservation efforts, generates educational and economic benefits for local communities and promotes sustainable waste management practices.

Taman Safari Bogor has developed a recycling system that transforms elephant dung into “poo paper,” a type of recycled paper produced from a combination of natural fibers found in elephant feces and wastepaper pulp. Elephant dung is known for its high lignocellulosic content, which includes cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, key components of plant cell walls, making it a suitable raw material for paper pulp production (Fasake and Dashora, 2020). Due to the elephant’s relatively inefficient digestive system, much of the plant fiber they consume remains undigested, resulting in feces that are rich in fibrous material ideal for processing into paper (Zhang et al., 2021).

The process begins with the collection of dung, which is then thoroughly washed to remove contaminants. Coarse fibers are separated and mechanically pulped using industrial blenders. The pulped fibers are then boiled for approximately one hour to sterilize the material and soften the lignocellulosic structure. Once boiled, the fibers are sun-dried to reduce moisture content. The dried fibers are subsequently blended with recycled paper pulp in specific ratios to improve paper quality. The resulting mixture is poured onto mesh screens to form sheets, which are again sun-dried to produce the final product.

Recent studies indicate that paper made from alternative fibers, particularly from the waste of herbivorous animals, can significantly reduce the pressure on forests as sources of traditional pulp and lower the carbon footprint of paper production (Furszyfer Del Rio et al., 2022). This process aligns with the principles of the circular economy by converting biological waste into a value-added product. The process of transforming elephant dung into eco-friendly paper involves several steps, starting from collection to sheet formation, as illustrated in Figure 2.

Elephant dung is collected immediately after defecation to preserve the integrity of undigested plant fibers it contains. The washing process is carried out using clean water to remove soil, small stones and other contaminants that may damage processing machinery or reduce the quality of the resulting pulp. This stage is essential because clean fibers facilitate the pulping process and contribute to the production of paper sheets with better texture and mechanical strength. According to Chavan et al. (2022), pre-recycling washing of organic waste significantly enhances production efficiency and improves the final product’s quality while reducing microbial load and heavy metal content.

After washing, coarse fibers are separated from non-fibrous residues such as seeds, stones or food remnants. This sorting step is critical to ensuring the quality of the pulp. The cleaned fibers are then ground using industrial blenders to produce pulp with uniform particle size. Reducing particle size increases the efficiency of sheet formation and results in a smoother final texture that is more suitable for printing or writing. Xie et al. (2018) noted that mechanical processing of lignocellulosic fibers through blending accelerates the formation of a strong and cohesive pulp matrix, thereby improving both the mechanical properties and printability of the recycled paper.

The blended fibers are then boiled for approximately one hour to sterilize the material from pathogenic microorganisms and soften the lignocellulosic structure, making it easier to form into paper sheets. Boiling also eliminates any unpleasant odor that may remain from fermentation during digestion. After boiling, the fibers are drained to remove excess water and are then sun-dried to achieve optimal moisture content. Narra et al. (2024) emphasize that thermal processes such as boiling are vital in the initial pulp preparation stage, as they improve cleanliness and reduce resin and inhibitory substances that may affect paper quality. Figure 3 depicts the draining process, during which the pulp mixture is carefully spread and left to dry partially before moving on to sheet formation.

The dried fibers are mixed with recycled paper pulp, which has been previously processed into slurry form using a grinding machine. The composition of this mixture plays a key role in determining the mechanical strength, texture and printability of the final paper sheets. According to Salam et al. (2018), blending natural fibers with recycled pulp enhances inter-fiber cohesion and contributes to a stable microstructure that improves paper quality. This approach also aligns with waste reduction strategies and maximizes resource utilization in accordance with circular economy frameworks and green manufacturing principles (Elroi et al., 2023).

The homogeneous pulp mixture is poured onto a mesh screen (typically made of nylon or fine wire), which acts as a mold. The screen is gently shaken to distribute the pulp evenly and allow excess water to drain, forming a consistent layer of interwoven fibers. The wet sheet is then carefully lifted and sun-dried until fully dry. This stage of sheet formation and drying is crucial in determining the final paper quality, including thickness, absorbency and mechanical strength. Xie et al. (2018) argue that optimal moisture control and pressure application during sheet formation are key to achieving desired porosity and fiber density, especially when using pulp derived from biological waste such as elephant dung.

The final product, Safari poo paper, is used for educational purposes, souvenirs and conservation-themed merchandise, representing a creative and sustainable approach to organic waste management. This product not only represents a creative solution to the issue of organic waste but also serves an educational purpose by raising visitor awareness of the importance of waste utilization and resource conservation. Research conducted by Phiri et al. (2023) and Cao et al. (2024) indicates that paper made from natural fibers derived from biological waste possesses strong ecological and market appeal, as it combines the principles of recycling, environmental conservation and sustainability. As such, poo paper serves as a symbolic product that reinforces the image of Taman Safari as a tourism destination committed to responsible tourism principles and the circular economy.

The elephant dung management strategy implemented through an integrated waste management (IWM) approach at Taman Safari Bogor has generated significant positive environmental impacts. One of the primary contributions of this initiative is the reduction of organic waste volume generated each month, waste that previously posed environmental risks such as water pollution, foul odors and the release of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The conversion of organic waste into value-added products such as recycled paper and biogas has enabled Taman Safari to successfully mitigate methane emissions that would otherwise be released from the open dumping or anaerobic decomposition of organic waste in landfills. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (Zhai et al., 2021), anaerobically degraded organic waste in landfills is among the major sources of methane emissions, a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential approximately 28 times greater than that of carbon dioxide.

Replacing conventional natural resources such as wood with elephant dung fiber for paper pulp production contributes to reducing deforestation and supporting the conservation of tropical forests, which play a crucial role in climate change mitigation (Hettiarachchi et al., 2018). This initiative, therefore, not only addresses waste-related impacts but also reduces reliance on nonrenewable resources. The approach aligns with the principles of the circular economy and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), positioning Taman Safari as a concrete example of waste management that directly contributes to environmental conservation.

Poo paper is marketed as an eco-friendly souvenir that not only generates additional revenue for the institution but also enhances Taman Safari’s brand image as a sustainable tourism destination. The commercialization of this product reflects a form of economic diversification through circular economy principles, emphasizing the transformation of waste into valuable resources. According to Ddiba et al. (2022), recycled products derived from organic waste possess strong economic potential due to their appeal within niche markets that support green consumption. As illustrated in Figure 4, the Taman Safari Bogor gift shop serves as a commercial outlet that promotes sustainable products and raises visitor awareness of conservation initiatives.

Composting of organic waste is utilized to support self-sufficient agricultural practices, such as cultivating fruits and vegetables within the park. This directly contributes to reducing operational costs in the supply chain for animal feed and food ingredients used in the park’s restaurants. The strategy reinforces the principles of self-reliance and resource efficiency. Collaboration with local cooperatives (KUD) in the supply and distribution of raw materials also stimulates the local economy and enhances community engagement in conservation-based tourism activities. As highlighted by Axhami et al. (2023), integrated waste management can create new economic opportunities while strengthening socio-economic linkages between conservation institutions and surrounding communities.

Taman Safari Bogor has transformed waste management into an educational platform through initiatives such as the Poo Paper School Tour. This program introduces visitors, particularly school-aged children and students, to sustainable conservation practices. Through an experiential learning approach, participants are not merely passive observers; they are actively involved in the process of transforming waste into valuable products such as recycled paper. This method aligns with environmental education theories, which suggest that hands-on learning can more effectively foster pro-environmental awareness and behaviors than traditional teaching methods (Cole et al., 2019).

These educational initiatives reinforce the role of Taman Safari Bogor as a conservation learning center that successfully integrates recreation with education, making it a destination with ecological, social and cognitive value. A study by Yusrini and Eviana (2019) indicates that conservation-based interpretive programs in natural tourism areas can enhance visitors’ emotional engagement and cognitive understanding of sustainability issues. As such, the integration of educational programs into waste management efforts plays a crucial role in shaping environmentally conscious generations and supporting the long-term goals of nature conservation.

The elephant dung management practices at Taman Safari Bogor, guided by the principles of integrated waste management, reflect the implementation of the four fundamental pillars of responsible tourism: economic, social, environmental and cultural sustainability (Crotts et al., 2022). From an ecological perspective, the transformation of organic waste into recycled paper significantly reduces environmental pressure by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing the exploitation of non-renewable natural resources. This approach is consistent with the principle of ecological sustainability, as emphasized by Boley and Green (2016), who underscore the importance of resource conservation in the development of tourism destinations.

Socially, the active involvement of local communities in waste management and the distribution of recycled products embodies the principles of inclusion and community empowerment (Ting et al., 2022). This not only fosters greater social acceptance of tourism activities but also strengthens the social cohesion between the park’s management and surrounding communities (Sarr et al., 2021). From an economic standpoint, the conversion of waste into marketable products, such as poo paper, creates new entrepreneurial opportunities and enhances operational efficiency. According to de Klerk et al. (2022), such approaches strengthen local economies and diversify income streams, both of which are essential for sustaining tourism destinations.

Finally, in terms of education, Taman Safari Bogor’s environmental interpretation programs enable visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the waste cycle and the importance of environmental conservation through direct, hands-on experiences. Weng et al. (2023) affirm that immersive educational experiences in natural tourism settings can have long-term impacts on the development of environmentally responsible behavior.

The case of Taman Safari Bogor demonstrates that wildlife conservation and waste management can be synergistically integrated within a unified system that supports sustainability principles. This integration reflects a holistic approach to tourism destination management, where environmental, social and economic dimensions reinforce one another. To strengthen this sustainability framework, both regional and national government policies must focus on embedding waste management into the tourism sector through several strategic measures.

First, fiscal and non-fiscal incentives should be provided for destinations that implement integrated waste management practices (Matheson, 2019). These may include tax reductions and improved access to green financing schemes. Second, competency-based training programs in waste processing technologies, recycling and renewable energy should be developed and delivered to tourism operators and local communities (Perkumienė et al., 2023). Such training would empower destinations to achieve self-sufficiency in waste management. Third, the establishment of a comprehensive green tourism certification system is essential (Razpotnik Visković and Logar, 2022). This system should include indicators such as waste management, energy efficiency, water conservation and community engagement.

According to Matheson (2019), the success of integrated waste management implementation is strongly influenced by policy frameworks that support cross-sectoral collaboration and active public participation. Similarly, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2020) highlights that mainstreaming waste management into sustainable tourism planning can accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Practices such as those implemented by Taman Safari Bogor, with strong policy support, can serve as new standards for conservation-based tourism management and offer a valuable model for national ecotourism policy development.

The integrated waste management (IWM) model implemented at Taman Safari Bogor offers strong potential for replication across a wide range of nature-and-conservation-based tourism destinations, including zoos, national parks, geoparks and wildlife rehabilitation centers. The success of replication efforts depends largely on the ability to adapt technologies to local contexts, the availability of resources and institutional support at the regional level. According to Castro et al. (2023), replicating IWM models requires a transdisciplinary approach involving active participation from multiple stakeholders, including academics, tourism industry players, government bodies and civil society organizations.

Strategic collaboration with research institutions and universities is therefore essential to provide scientific data, develop appropriate technologies and ensure continuous monitoring and evaluation of the system. Local governments also play a critical role in supporting implementation through conducive policy environments and community empowerment programs, including capacity-building and financial incentives. Thananusak and Suriyankietkaew (2023) emphasize that strengthening local capacities and engaging communities are key factors for successful community-based waste management in the context of sustainable tourism development.

Moving forward, the diversification of poo paper products is essential to create added value, such as converting the material into notebooks, eco-friendly packaging or artistic souvenirs that carry both economic significance and educational messages on recycling and conservation. According to Sellitto et al. (2020), innovation in products made from natural fibers derived from organic waste can enhance competitiveness in green markets while supporting the growth of local creative economies.

Further innovation could involve utilizing ash from combustion processes or other solid residues as alternative raw materials in the production of low-cost construction materials, such as bricks, paving blocks or composite panels. These innovations not only enhance the utility of waste but also contribute to environmentally friendly infrastructure development and align with the principles of the circular economy (Elroi et al., 2023).

The management of elephant dung through an integrated waste management (IWM) approach at Taman Safari Bogor demonstrates that conservation, tourism and sustainability can operate in harmony. This model not only offers an innovative solution for large-scale organic waste management but also yields multidimensional benefits, ecological, economic, social and educational. The conversion of waste into products such as recycled paper, compost and renewable energy positions Taman Safari Bogor as a tangible example of circular economy practices and green tourism in action.

Furthermore, this model illustrates the active role that conservation institutions can play in advancing responsible tourism that is responsive to global environmental issues, while also promoting community engagement and public education. In line with the findings of Thananusak and Suriyankietkaew (2023), such practices represent a strategic pathway for strengthening tourism’s contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As such, Taman Safari Bogor serves as a valuable reference for other destinations seeking to holistically integrate waste management into conservation and ecotourism frameworks.

There remains significant opportunity for both quantitative and qualitative research on the environmental, social and economic impacts of elephant dung management through the integrated waste management (IWM) approach implemented at Taman Safari. Future studies could focus on measuring the carbon footprint reductions achieved through the conversion of organic waste into products such as recycled paper and biogas. Further investigation is also needed into the efficiency of biological waste recycling technologies and their potential contributions to greenhouse gas mitigation, particularly through life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies.

From a social perspective, longitudinal surveys are recommended to assess behavioral change and visitor awareness of sustainability issues before and after participating in environmental education programs. On the economic front, research could center on cost-benefit analyses of waste recycling practices over the long term as well as the scalability of this model within local creative economy frameworks. Such research will offer a strong scientific foundation for evidence-based policymaking, enable the replication of best practices, and strengthen tourism’s contribution to sustainable development.