Efficient waste management is crucial for sustainable growth in rural areas, yet this issue is often overlooked due to a lack of infrastructure and resources. This paper presents a case study of Krishnappa Nagara, a semi-rural neighborhood of Bengaluru in the South Indian state of Karnataka, where community-driven waste management strategies were implemented to address urgent waste disposal and environmental health concerns. Utilizing participatory research methods and active community engagement, the study identified critical gaps in waste management, including inadequate segregation practices and limited knowledge of environmentally friendly disposal techniques. In response, an affordable and scalable solution tailored to the village’s specific needs was proposed, incorporating upcycling, small-scale composting, and household waste segregation. The findings illustrate how grassroots engagement can foster long-term resilience and sustainability in rural communities and highlight the essential role of community involvement in promoting sustainable waste practices.