In the bustling urban landscape of Kediri City, a transformative initiative is brewing, one that turns a common household nuisance into an eco-friendly commodity. The Faculty of Agriculture at Kadiri University, led by Nina Lisanty, has embarked on a mission to empower local communities through innovative waste management practices, particularly focusing on used cooking oil. This endeavor, recently detailed in the journal *Prima: Journal of Community Empowering and Services* (translated as *Prima: Journal of Community Empowerment and Services*), is not just about cleaning up neighborhoods; it’s about fostering sustainability and economic opportunities.
The project targets the Persada Sayang Housing residents, a community already engaged in waste management through their local “Bank Sampah” (waste bank). The initiative involves educating and training residents to convert used cooking oil into soap, a process that not only reduces liquid waste but also creates a marketable product. “By actively involving the community in every stage of liquid waste management, the waste management program in urban areas could be more effective and sustainable,” Lisanty explains. This hands-on approach ensures that the program is not just a temporary fix but a long-term solution embedded in the community’s daily life.
The implications of this research extend beyond Kediri City. In Indonesia, households are the largest contributors to waste, and urban areas generate significantly more waste than rural regions. Effective waste management involves multiple stages, including collection, sorting, recycling, composting, burning, and public education. Lisanty’s work highlights the importance of community involvement in these processes. “Cooperation between the government, waste management agencies, and the community is crucial,” she emphasizes. This collaborative approach could serve as a model for other urban areas struggling with waste management.
The commercial impacts of this research are particularly noteworthy for the energy and sustainability sectors. As cities around the world grapple with increasing waste and the need for sustainable practices, initiatives like this one offer a blueprint for turning waste into a resource. The conversion of used cooking oil into soap is just one example of how household byproducts can be repurposed, reducing environmental impact while creating economic opportunities.
Looking ahead, the success of this project could inspire similar initiatives in other urban areas, both in Indonesia and globally. The focus on community empowerment and sustainable waste management aligns with broader goals of urban sustainability and circular economies. As Lisanty and her team continue to refine and expand their program, the potential for scaling these practices becomes increasingly apparent. This research not only addresses immediate waste management challenges but also paves the way for a more sustainable and economically vibrant future.
In a world where waste management is a growing concern, the work of Nina Lisanty and her team at Kadiri University offers a beacon of hope and innovation. By empowering communities to take control of their waste, they are not just cleaning up neighborhoods; they are building a foundation for a more sustainable and prosperous future.