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SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land

CIRCULAR WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ORGANIC WASTE PROCESSING INTEGRATED WITH AQUAPONICS SYSTEM

Community ServiceNews ReleaseWaste Management Monday, 7 October 2024

To enhance the active role of the Women Farmers Group in supporting Circular Waste Management, the 2024 PkM-MBKM team, led by Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., conducted an evaluation of integrated organic waste processing using the aquaponics system. This event took place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM at the Kelompok Wanita Tani (KWT) Amanda in Pedukuhan Kepuh Wetan, Wirokerten Village, Banguntapan District, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. During the event, the PkM-MBKM team members—Hanif Fauzan Saputra, Salma Nur Majidah, Maharani Pratiwi S.A., M. Reza Hendriansah, Rima Vegi Santika, Eka Nur Oktavia, Adzkiya Aqmaliza R., and Agra Daffa Putra—presented a progress report and evaluation of the integrated organic waste processing using the aquaponics system previously implemented. The evaluation included identifying challenges encountered during the monitoring process, along with effective solutions for issues in maggot cultivation, plant cultivation via aquaponics, and catfish farming. Some obstacles included several catfish dying and plant growth being slightly slower, likely due to high ammonia levels. These issues could be resolved by more frequent water changes to prevent murkiness and reduce ammonia concentration. Additionally, selecting the appropriate plant species is crucial in an aquaponic system.


Maggots hold significant potential as feed for livestock and fish. The PkM-MBKM team also provided materials and practical training on processing maggots into livestock and fish feed using several methods, including: direct feeding of maggots for livestock or fish, drying the maggots via oven, sun drying, or roasting to produce feed with a longer shelf life, and creating powdered feed through fermentation for a finer product with even greater longevity. The next activity involved a practical session on innovating maggot-based livestock and fish feed, specifically by drying maggots in an oven. This process can be done in two ways: at a lower temperature of 60°C for 10 minutes, or at a higher temperature of around 80°C for 3 to 5 minutes. The dried maggots can be used directly as feed, offering the advantage of a longer shelf life without spoilage at room temperature.

This activity provided benefits for students by developing research and social empowerment skills, while partners gained from the optimization of waste management and increased productivity. The innovation of processing maggots into fish feed will be implemented to boost income. This collaboration strengthens the sustainable relationship between the PkM-MBKM team from the Faculty of Biology UGM and its partners (SDG 17), increases environmental awareness, and develops entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for the KWT Amanda, contributes to the development of the community’s economy in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 and 8).

Wukirsari Village Partner Program: Introduction to Microalgae, Cultivation and Benefits #3

Community Service Thursday, 3 October 2024

Monday, September 30 2024, the Community Service team of Wukirsari Village Partner, held its third activity in Wukirsari Village, Kapanewon Cangkringan, Sleman Regency. The activity was opened and guided by Dr. Maryani, M.Sc. which was continued with remarks from the team leader, Mrs. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D. At this third meeting, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Sc., M.App.Sc. explained about microalgae with the theme “Introduction to Spirulina: Cultivation and Benefits”. The 35 participants of Sruni village PKK, were told that Spirulina is algae that is very small in size, green in color, spiral-shaped, and can be found in any water body, whether in rivers, seas or ponds. This algae is very rich in nutrients and healthy. Spirulina contains high protein, up to 70%, the same as protein from eggs. Apart from increasing endurance, reducing the risk of diabetes and cholesterol, it can also support children’s growth to avoid stunting. “The harvested products are in the form of powder, such as flour, which can then be made into capsules or various products, and sold at relatively high prices,” said Dr. Eko while showing gallons containing Spirulina culture and samples of Spirulina powder which had been neatly packaged to the participants who were enthusiastic about listening to the presentation. “This powder product can be added directly to various foods: mixed with warm rice, added to soupy foods, or mixed into drinks,” he added.


Dr. Eko also explained how to cultivate Spirulina, namely by mixing the Spirulina starter into clean water and adding fertilizer. Apart from that, by adjusting the pH, providing an aerator connected to a hose, and a lamp, the Spirulina culture can be harvested in around 7-21 days or when the color is bluish green. Harvesting is done by filtering the culture using a nylon filter, then squeezing it until a paste is obtained. Next, the paste is exposed to the sun to dry.

In this activity, a method for cultivating Spirulina was also demonstrated by using unused gallons of mineral water. This session was assisted by students, namely Renata Adaranyssa Egistha Putri, Muhammad Farrel Zharif Zidane, and Finka Aulia. Spirulina starter is mixed with clean water in a 1:1 ratio. Fertilizer, in which the composition is the result of research by the microalgae team under the supervision of Dr. Eko, then added to the culture mixture as a source of nutrients that support the growth of Spirulina. The aerator and light are then installed into the gallon. This culture is grown until it is ready to be harvested when the color is bluish green. Aerators and lights can be periodically turned on and off alternately day or night. This session was then continued with a discussion regarding the material and a quiz with door prizes which increased participants’ enthusiasm in answering questions.

In this third activity, the entire Wukirsari partner village team was involved, namely Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Sc., Mrs. Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si., Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Sc., Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Sc., and Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si. It is hoped that today’s activity will broaden the knowledge of people who may not know much about microalgae, especially Spirulina. This activity is expected to support the achievement of Indonesia’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely Healthy and Prosperous Lives (3); No Hunger (2); No Poverty (1).

After the presentation of the Spirulina theme was finished, the lecturer team and participants went together to the hydroponic planting site, which was the theme that had been presented at the previous meeting. Various plants grown hydroponically, such as kale, lettuce and mustard greens, grow very well and are ready to be harvested. The team from the Faculty of Biology UGM also provided UV plastic for a semi-greenhouse which was initiated by PKK of Sruni Village.

Faculty of Biology Student Team from Universitas Gadjah Mada Wins 3rd Place on National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTI) at the 18th Annual Conference of Economics Forum (ALCOFE) 2024 UNS

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Wednesday, 2 October 2024

Yogyakarta, September 25, 2024 – A student team from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada achieved remarkable success by winning 3rd place in the ALCOFE XVIII 2024 Scientific Writing Competition, organized by Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) in person at the Werkudara Hall of the UNS Library. This national-scale competition took place from June 27 to July 17, 2024, for registration and abstract submission, followed by the full paper submission phase from July 27 to August 17, 2024, in two waves. The finalists were announced on August 26, 2024, after the full paper submission, and the competition concluded with the Grand Final presentation on September 24, 2024, followed by a field trip, awarding session, and farewell on the next day, September 25, 2024.

The team, named “CIRCEL US” (Circular Economy of Edible for Us), consists of K. William Hendri Panjaitan (2021), K.H. Mahadhevy Ryrathna Vidhantyka (2022), and Adi Citra Prima Pranata (2022), under the guidance of supervisor Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, S.Si., M.S., Ph.D. They presented a research based paper titled “Potential of Edible Packaging Biofilm from Cocoa Peel Waste as a Substitute for Food Packaging Plastic.”

In their paper, the CIRCEL US team addressed the issues of 651 million tons of cocoa produced in 2022, which has become one of Indonesia’s important export commodities, contributing significantly to the country’s foreign exchange earnings besides oil and gas. Most cocoa fruit utilization focuses only on the seeds for chocolate production, leaving cocoa peel as waste. Cocoa peel waste (CPW) or LKK (in Indonesia: Limbah Kulit Kakao) is one of the plantation wastes that is rarely utilized. However, cocoa peel contains high levels of fat and complex carbohydrates (cellulose content) at 37%, making it suitable as a biomaterial for edible film, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The nutrient content of CPW is quite good, with dry matter at 88%, crude protein at 11.71%, crude fiber at 20.79%, fat at 11.80%, and nitrogen-free extract (NFE) at 34.90%.

It is noted that plastic consumption in Indonesia can reach 22.5 kg per person per year (excluding the large total population), with most plastic waste coming from food and beverage product consumption in 2022. The application of edible biofilm or EPB using organic waste is one effort to promote a circular economy and environmental conservation by minimizing the addition of plastic packaging in nature. Edible Packaging Biofilm (EPB) can be utilized in various sectors, such as food wrapping. By processing cocoa peel waste into more valuable EPB, it is hoped to improve the community’s economy and create a green environment with environmentally friendly and easily degradable products, thereby reducing daily plastic packaging usage.

EPB from LKK can produce renewable food packaging that is free from plastic materials, significantly reducing plastic-dominated waste when applied sustainably. Support and supervision from environmental agencies and the government fully influence the production flow and consumption effects of EPB, as well as the changes in impact when returned to the environment. The large number of Indonesians replacing plastic packaging with EPB-based packaging will accelerate the sustainability cycle in reducing plastic waste. In this case, EPB can be modified over time so that it can be developed and officially recognized by the local government that natural packaging derived from organic waste meets safety standards for consuming food along with EPB packaging.

Based on reviewed research sources, it has been proven that EPB has the potential to replace plastic packaging and reduce individual dependency on contributing to plastic waste. The processing of EPB packaging is organically sourced and easily implemented through the utilization of cocoa shell waste (LKK). After the consumption of EPB products, it can be considered an important foundation as a reinforcing factor for the principles of a circular economy and in line with global efforts in developing new renewable energy to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) points 8, 12, and 15, namely obtaining decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and protecting terrestrial ecosystems.

This competition was participated by 84 teams from 51 public and private universities from all provinces across Indonesia. The achievement of the CIRCEL US team demonstrates our commitment to developing innovative and applicable research. This achievement also proves that the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada continues to strive to contribute to the development of sustainable science and technology, in line with UGM’s SDGs goals in building intersectoral synergy to face the challenges of the circular economy in the modern era. [Author: K William Hendri Panjaitan]

Wildan Fadhilah Kurnia Embarks on Transformative Semester Abroad at James Cook University, Australia

Tak Berkategori Wednesday, 2 October 2024

Wildan Fadhilah Kurnia, a dedicated student from IUP batch 2021, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has joined a prestigious six-month student mobility program at James Cook University (JCU) in Australia. This program is designed to provide students with invaluable international experience and the opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities in Marine Biology.


So far, Wildan has found his experience at JCU to be nothing short of exceptional. “The research conducted here is renowned globally across various fields, particularly marine biology, aquaculture, and paleontology,” he shared. Enrolled in courses from the Marine Biology, Aquaculture, and Earth and Environmental Sciences faculties, he has been impressed by JCU’s top-of-the-line research facilities and highly interactive classes that encourage critical thinking.

Wildan’s curriculum has provided him with hands-on fieldwork opportunities, allowing him to engage directly with the subject matter. He spent time at the Flinders River Formation, searching for fossils and studying the stratigraphy of geological formations. Additionally, he visited various aquaculture facilities, gaining firsthand insight into the day-to-day operations and the diverse species cultivated within the industry.

A highlight of his program has been a visit to JCU’s Orpheus Island Research Station, where he participated in real-time analysis of the coral reefs surrounding the island. “Each subject has its challenges, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my studies here and have learned a tremendous amount,” Wildan noted.
In addition to his coursework, Wildan is collaborating with Dr. Espen Knutsen, Senior Scientist and Curator of Paleontology at the Queensland Museum in Townsville, to further his ongoing thesis on fossils discovered in underwater caves.

Wildan’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of international education and research collaboration. He looks forward to applying his experiences and insights to his future endeavors. [Aulia]

Orchid Exploration by the Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) in Curug Siluwok

News ReleaseStudent Activities Thursday, 26 September 2024

On September 21, 2024, the Conservation Division of the Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) Universitas Gadjah Mada conducted an exploration activity at Curug Siluwok. This regular activity acted as a foundational step in the conservation of native orchid species.


Curug Siluwok was selected as the exploration site due to its status as a prominent ecotourism destination in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The prevalence of orchid species in this area is particularly susceptible to disturbances from tourist activities. The exploration involved ten active members of BiOSC and aimed to document the native orchid species in Curug Siluwok, thereby augmenting the biodiversity database of orchids in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, particularly within the Menoreh Highland.

The exploration commenced with a comprehensive briefing session in the morning to prepare participants for field activities and assign specific responsibilities. Subsequently, the team embarked on a journey to the exploration site, which took approximately one hour. Upon arrival at Curug Siluwok at 09:00, participants collected data on orchids in Curug Siluwok, including morphological characteristics, the enumeration of individual orchids encountered, geographic coordinates of each orchid’s location, and environmental parameters. The investigation resulted in the identification of 11 orchid species at the Curug Siluwok site, including Vanilla planifolia Andrews, Dendrobium crumenatum Sw., Bryobrium retusum (Blume) Ng & Cribb, Acriopsis lilifolia (Koenig) Ormerod, Rhynchostylis retusa (L.) Blume, Aerides odorata Lour., Liparis condylobulbon Rchb.f., Zeuxine clandestina Blume, Spathoglottis plicata Blume, Malaxis sp., and Thrixspermum sp. The data will contribute to the conservation records of native orchids and enhance our understanding of orchid biodiversity within the Special Region of Yogyakarta, particularly in the Menoreh Highland.

It is hoped that the regular exploratory activities will enrich the existing knowledge base concerning the distribution of various orchid species in the Menoreh Highland, specifically at Curug Siluwok, thus supporting the conservation of orchid species within the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Following this exploration, the Conservation Division will implement ongoing monitoring in the Curug Siluwok area to ensure the continued growth and sustainability of the native orchid populations.

Inauguration of KABUT KEBONALAS Tourism Village, Manisrenggo District, Klaten by the Regent of Klaten

News Release Thursday, 26 September 2024

KABUT KEBONALAS Tourism Village, Manisrenggo, Klaten, which was built starting in 2021 and began planting fruit plants together with the MBKM Membangun Desa, Faculty of Biology, UGM (Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D and Yousuf Soulaeman, S.IP) and since 2022 has entered the first harvest period. In November 2023, the first longan harvest was carried out together with MBKM students, Faculty of Biology, UGM together with POKDARWIS, village government officials, and PKK groups. Then on February 28, 2024, KABUT KEBONALAS together with the MBKM team held a harvest activity and socialization of the tourist destination rides to all MUSPIKA of Manisrenggo District, namely Manisrenggo Sub-district Head Mr. Slamet, S.H., M.Sc., DANRAMIL Manisrenggo Mr. Captain Inf. Sukarman, Manisrenggo Police Chief AKP Fajar Damhudi, S.H., all members of POKDARWIS and elements of Kebonalas Village Government, as well as the ranks of Manisrenggo Teachers and Health Center. This activity involved the Coordinator of the UGM KKN PPM team Muhammad Naufal Dzakwan Luzen and teams from several clusters through the UGM KKN PPM program and the MBKM team Darren Nicholas Rahmanto, Fadilah Rahma Julianty, Joananda Taufik Ardana, and Tamara Sugihara, which then operated in the UGM KKN PPM Program period 2 in 2024 with 30 students with the support of the Directorate of Community Service through the Fostered Village Service program and the UGM KKN Sub directorate through the KKN program.


On September 25, 2024, it was a big momentum for the KABUT KEBONALAS tourist village because it coincided with the Klaten Regent’s Sambang Warga activity, which attend by the head of all departments in Klaten Regency, the village heads in the Regency, the tourist village was inaugurated by Mrs. Hj. Sri Mulyani. “Kampung Buah Tlatar has good potential to be developed as edutourism because it has a good view and prospects to be accompanied by culinary and coffee tourism,” added the Regent in her speech. This activity was opened with a performance of the Edan Edanan Dance and Rampag Kendang from ISI Yogyakarta students. KABUT KEBONALAS is expected to become an integrated tourist vehicle for MSMEs, local culture and arts, foster networking opportunities, and contribute to the economic growth of the community. Then, a symbolic handover of longan fruit plants from the Community Service based on Fostered Village UGM 2024 program and MBKM Membangun Desa of the UGM Faculty of Biology was carried out by Mr. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni who in this case represented the Dean, Mr. Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. On this occasion, the team handed over two longan plants bearing fruit in 100-liter pots and a total of 250 longan plants to Kebonalas residents. It is hoped that the distribution of these plants can support the KABUT KEBONALAS in the future while empowering the economy of local residents to avoid poverty (SDG1) and create an inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable community (SDG 11) and to combat climate change (SDG 13).

#SDG 1: Poverty; #SDG 11 Inclusive community; #SDG 13: Climate change; #UGM Biology

Open Senate Meeting of the Faculty of Biology in 2024, Highlights the Importance of Biology in Biodiversity in Indonesia and the World

News Release Monday, 23 September 2024

Yogyakarta, September 19, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology UGM held the Open Senate Meeting in 2024 at the Auditorium of Tropical Biology with the theme “Biologi Berkarya, Biologi Mendunia” (Biology Create, Biology Goes Global). The Open Senate Meeting was also the peak event of the series of celebrations for the 69th Anniversary of the Faculty of Biology UGM. The meeting was attended by the senate, deans, lecturers, education staff and student representatives of Faculty of Biology UGM, as well as invited guests, alumni, partners, and Dharma Wanita of the Faculty of Biology UGM.


Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. as the Chairperson of the Senate of the Faculty of Biology UGM opened the Senate Meeting and continued with singing the songs “Indonesia Raya”, “Hymne Gadjah Mada”, and “Mars Biologi” as well as a joint prayer led by Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, Ph.D.

Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med. Ed., Sp.OG (K), Ph.D., Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada also attended the Senate Open Meeting and then delivered her remarks. “Since its inception, the Faculty of Biology has had a mandate to preserve biodiversity in Indonesia, including promoting work and innovation in sustainable development,” said Prof. Ova in her remarks (19/9). The Rector also expressed her appreciation to the Faculty of Biology in initiating the strengthening of the Indonesian Biodiversity Index, Biodiversity Credit and the pioneering of the Biodiversity Curator Profession.

Next, the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) service was launched by the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada, accompanied by the Dean and Chair of the Senate of the Faculty of Biology UGM and Mrs. Erlina Vera Ratu from the Satriabudi Dharma Setia Foundation. Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) is an integrated DNA/RNA sequencing service unit at the Faculty of Biology UGM. With support from Panin Bank and the Satriabudi Dharma Setia Foundation, IGF uses the long-read sequencing platform from Nanopore Technology to provide the largest sequencing service in Indonesia. The presence of IGF is expected to make UGM a pioneer university in the application of nanopore technology and open up new opportunities for research development in various fields.

Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. as the Dean of the Faculty of Biology then delivered his remarks and the Annual Report of the Faculty of Biology UGM. He explained that the Faculty of Biology has shown its position in the international arena and has succeeded in maintaining its position at 501-550 in the world for Biological Science, and is the best in Indonesia based on the QS World Ranking. Prof. Budi further explained the role of Biology that continues to develop from the fields of Evolution, Biotechnology, to Ecology, and it’s very large role in efforts to preserve biodiversity, especially in Indonesia. The Faculty of Biology also supports these efforts through the initiation of the Indonesian Biodiversity Index and the establishment of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program. The implementation of Biodiversity Credit is also carried out together with partners of the Faculty of Biology. This is in line with support for the achievements of the Sustainable Development Program (SDGs), especially in improving the quality of inclusive education (SDG 4), handling climate change (SDG 13), preserving ecosystems on land and sea (SDG 14 and SDG 15).

The improvement of education quality in accordance with SDG 4 is also demonstrated by the Faculty of Biology which has successfully maintained ASIIN international accreditation for its Bachelor and Master programs. This year, the Faculty of Biology UGM has also successfully launched the Biodiversity Curator Profession Program with 17 students with Bachelor to Doctoral educational backgrounds. In 2024, the Faculty of Biology will send 7 students for a Double Degree program with Leeds University UK, as well as dozens of other students participating in exchange programs with the Sakura Science scheme, Student Mobility, Student Exchange JASSO, or student exchange programs organized by UGM. A total of 3 students are participating in the fast-track bachelor-master program. Student achievements also continue to increase in the international and national arenas. The Faculty of Biology continues to improve the quality of research through the support of adequate facilities, including through the procurement of assets and the PUAPT (Inter-University Center of Excellence) grant scheme for various laboratory facilities that support biological research. The support of the Faculty of Biology’s human resources is also demonstrated by the increase in the number of lecturers and professors, as well as various routine programs to improve the quality of human resources.

Furthermore, the achievements of the number of research, achievements of international publications of lecturers of the Faculty of Biology, and the development of journals published by the Faculty of Biology, including the Journal of Tropical Biotechnology and Biodiversity (JTBB) indexed by Scopus Q3 and Berkala Ilmiah Biologi which has ISSN. Data on the increase in community service and cooperation both at the international and national levels were also presented. International publications of lecturers of the Faculty of Biology have continued to increase, especially in Q1 journals in the last 3 years. In improving the quality of education, the Faculty of Biology has collaborated with various world institutions to present 33 visiting professors and 7 adjunct professors during this period. Double degree collaboration has also continued to be improved, and so far, has succeeded in sending students for double undergraduate degrees at the Australian National University, and Leeds University, as well as double doctoral degrees at Montpellier France, University of Greifswald Germany, and Boku University Austria. Various programs that support research and cooperation are implemented, including the 8th National Seminar on Tropical Biology and the 7th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development which were attended by hundreds of participants from various institutions and countries, Research Day, BIOENTRI (Biology Open House and Introduction to Research Topics), as well as the first Business Gathering in collaboration with Prasetiya Mulya University and attended by dozens of partners.

The next Scientific Speech was delivered by Prof. dr. Erik H. J. Danen, Dean of Graduate School, Faculty of Science, Leiden University. He presented his latest research entitled “Advanced 3D co-culture models for mechanistic studies an

d drug testing in the context of fibrosis and cancer”. In the speech, Prof. Erik conveyed the focus of his research in the development of 3D models for cancer testing.

Furthermore, the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Joint Doctoral Degree with the Faculty of Science, Leiden University was carried out by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. accompanied by the Chair of the Senate, Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadi Susanto. On that occasion, Prof. Budi said that the collaboration was one of the efforts of the Faculty of Biology in increasing recognition in the international arena.

The Senate Open Meeting ended with a closing by the Chair of the Senate of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. It is hoped that the Open Meeting agenda as part of the celebration of the 69th Anniversary of the Faculty of Biology can spark the enthusiasm of the academic community so that the Faculty of Biology can continue to develop and provide benefits to the nation and state.

Highlighting Environmental Issues from Industrial Waste, UGM Biology Student Wins 3rd Place in National Essay Competition

Achivements Monday, 23 September 2024

Kotimah, an undergraduate student from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), class of 2022, has secured 3rd place in the Perta Event Essay Competition organized by IPB University. The Perta Event is open to students from universities across Indonesia and aims to foster critical thinking and analytical skills in addressing major societal issues as part of the national vision for Indonesia Emas 2045.


The Perta Event carried the theme “Smart Generation, Brilliant Future,” focusing on the role of Generation Z in generating innovative solutions to challenges in various sectors, including the environment, education, technology, socio-culture, and food security. The competition commenced on August 13, 2024, and included administration selection, essay submission, and finalist presentations. Kotimah’s essay, which focused on the pressing issue of industrial pollution, particularly from synthetic dye waste, was shortlisted as one of the top five entries. She was invited to present her ideas virtually on September 17, 2024. Her essay highlighted the growing environmental threat posed by industrial pollutants, specifically the harmful impact of synthetic dyes on ecosystems.

In her proposal, Kotimah introduced a novel solution by utilizing microbes derived from the fermentation of tea and sucrose solutions as a natural dye alternative. This microbial fermentation process offers an eco-friendly and sustainable substitute for synthetic dyes, with potential applications ranging from small-scale community initiatives to large-scale industrial production. Kotimah’s innovative approach aims to reduce the environmental footprint of industrial processes while promoting sustainable practices that align with long-term ecological conservation goals.

Kotimah expressed her hope that this microbial-based natural dye technology could be adopted widely in Indonesia, contributing to a more sustainable industrial system and supporting the creation of a greener future. Her achievement reflects UGM’s commitment to developing student talent and fostering innovative research solutions to address pressing environmental challenges.

This recognition not only underscores Kotimah’s academic excellence but also highlights the Faculty of Biology UGM’s dedication to empowering students to actively contribute to sustainable environmental solutions on both national and global scales.

Socialization of the Maintenance and Potential of Maron Chicken Eggs in Dusun Pajangan, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta

Community Service Sunday, 22 September 2024

On September 21, 2024, Dr. drh. Hendry Trisakti Saragih, M.P., from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, delivered a presentation on the proper maintenance of maron chickens to the residents of Dusun Pajangan, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The event was opened with remarks from Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., who explained that the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology, UGM, and Dusun Pajangan has been ongoing since 2019 and also involves students from the Faculty of Biology, UGM. In 2024, the community service programs in Dusun Pajangan include the Desa Mitra and MBKM-PkM Programs. The RW 16 village head, Mr. Sumadi, expressed his support for the program, which is coordinated by Mr. Gunardi, S.Si., the head of the Takmir Masjid Jami’ Darussalam Pajangan.


During this event as one of the activity series of Desa Mitra Grand in Wedomartani Village, Dr. Hendry explained the management of maron chickens, including the ideal cage design and the production of simple feed utilizing organic waste from the surrounding environment. Maron chickens, a crossbreed between Arab hens and Lingnan roosters, grow faster than local chickens and begin laying eggs at the age of seven months. The potential of maron chickens to boost the local economy is significant, as their eggs resemble local chicken eggs and can be sold at a higher price.

The cultivation of maron chickens aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including no. 1, no poverty, as maron chickens can lay eggs relatively quickly in large quantities and are highly marketable. It also supports no. 2, zero hunger, and no. 3, good health and well-being, as maron chicken eggs can be used to meet family nutritional needs. Moreover, this initiative contributes to SDG no. 12, responsible consumption and production, as the maintenance of maron chickens not only reduces organic waste but also produces manure useful for plants. The participants were highly engaged during the discussion, particularly about feed production and the idea of establishing a “chicken posyandu” for community care and oversight of chickens.

Sendari Community are Enthusiast on Learning Biopory Absroption Holes in One Health Socialization Activities by PkM-MBKM Faculty of Biology UGM 2024.

Community Service Wednesday, 18 September 2024

Yogyakarta, 15th September 2024 – The Community Service Team Program Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (PkM MBKM) Faculty of Biology UGM held community empowerment activities at Sendari, Cebongan, Tirtoadi, Sleman. This activity was led by three lecturers from Faculty of Biology UGM such as Novita Yustinadiar, M.Sc., Woro Anindito Sri Tanjung, Ph.D., and Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, Ph.D., and also supported by 13 students. The program, titled, One Health : Introduction to Biopory Absorption Holes, is implemented with the aim to increase environmental awareness and encourage people to actively participate in preserving nature through simple solutions and big impacts.

The activity, which took place at the house of the Head of RT 03 Sendari, started at 14.00 until 16.00 WIB. This socialization focused on introducing the One Health Concept through the use of biopory absorption holes. Biopory plays an important role by helping to reduce waterlogging, improving soil quality and supporting ecosystem balance. Participants, which are members of PKK, are expected to understand the importance of biopory absorption holes as an environmentally friendly solution which is applicable in daily life.

The event began with remarks from Mrs. Priwanti as Head of Dukuh, followed by the socialization material from Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., who explained the definition of biopory, the maintenance and the function for the environment. Mrs. Putri also shared her experience in using biopory at home and how the great benefits obtained. She emphasized that biopores are not only more efficient as water absorption but also increase soil fertility and prevent flooding in urban and rural areas. Continue with the presentation by the students of the material by highlighting the background information of the idea, working principles, how to make biopsy absorption holes, the ideal location for placing the biopores and various types of biopores that are applicable at home.

As part of the activity, participants were invited to directly demonstrate in the making of biopory absorption holes. They were divided into three groups where each group was given the tas of making one to two biopore holes around their house. After the demonstration was finished, the PkM-MBKM team gave assessments and awards to the group that showed the best result. Thus, the team also explained how to maintain the biopore so that the biopore will last in long term. Participants also were given guidance on materials that could be inserted into the hole, such as organic waste, which helps to catalyze the decomposition process and maintain the balance of the soil ecosystem.

The program to introduce biopore infiltration has strong relevance to several points in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). First, the biopory itself, helps achieve SDG number 6 which is Clean Water and Adequate Sanitation, by increasing water absorption into the soil and maintaining groundwater quality. Second, biopory supports SDG number 11, which is Sustainable Cities and Settlements, through green infrastructure that reduce the risk of flooding/ Third, biopory contributes to SDG number 13, which is Addressing Climate Change, by help to mitigate the impacts of climate change through better water and land management. Fourth, biopory support SDG number 15 which is Life on Land through increasing soil fertility and conserving soil biodiversity. Last, the application of biopory also relevant to SDG number 3 which is Healthy Lives and Well-being, since it helps to reduce the risk of standing water which may trigger disease.

All in all, the event closed with the distribution of door prizes and prizes for the winner of the Biopory competition. We al hoped that this activity will increase the community’s understanding of the importance of protecting the environment, as well as a real step at Sendari for a healthier and free of puddles of water. With One Health spirit, this program hopes that changes in people’s lifestyles as a positive impact, not only for people’s health but also the surrounding environment.

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