Himasiter IPB University Edukasi Pembuatan Lilin Aromaterapi serta Sabun Ekoenzim dari Limbah Rumah Tangga
IPB University‘s Animal Nutrition and Food Student Association (Himasiter) held a Festive Lecture to raise public awareness about the utilisation of household waste. The event took place in Sinarsari Village, Dramaga District, Bogor, West Java.
In this lecture, participants were taught how to make aromatherapy candles from used cooking oil as well as ecoenzyme soap produced from fermentation of organic waste. Himasiter‘s Student Organisation Capacity Strengthening Programme (PPK Ormawa) team showed that used cooking oil, which is usually considered kitchen waste, can be turned into aromatherapy candles that have aesthetic value and pleasant aroma.
Salma Hanifah, a member of Himasiter‘s PPK Ormawa team, explained the process of making aromatherapy candles from used cooking oil. “Used cooking oil can be filtered, cleaned, and mixed with other ingredients such as paraffin and essential oils to produce scented candles. In this way, we not only reduce waste, but also create useful products,” she said.
In addition, the PPK Ormawa Himasiter team also teaches eco-enzyme soap making. This process involves fermenting organic waste, such as leftover vegetables and fruits, with sugar and water for several weeks. The results of this fermentation are then mixed with used cooking oil to produce environmentally friendly soap.
“The eco-enzyme soap produced can not only be used for washing, but also has good antibacterial properties making it safe for the skin,” explained another member, Sitiana.
This activity was not only educational, but also interactive. Participants were invited to be directly involved in the process of making candles and soap. This activity provided hands-on experience for participants and increased their understanding of the importance of managing waste in an innovative and sustainable way.
One of the participants, Roro, expressed her enthusiasm after attending this event. “I am very happy to learn how to make candles and soap from waste. Apparently, the used cooking oil that I have been throwing away can be put to good use. I also feel that I can contribute to reducing waste at home,” she said.
The PPK Ormawa Himasiter team hopes that through this Lively Lecture, the community can apply knowledge about the utilisation of household waste that can help improve the community’s economy, such as through making aromatherapy candles and ecoenzyme soap. (*/Lp) (IAAS/RUM)
