UGM students are exploring sustainable solutions to address environmental issues by using activated carbon derived from coffee grounds as an adsorbent in household wastewater.
This research has significant potential to reduce the negative impact of domestic wastewater on the environment and create new opportunities for more sustainable waste management and resource utilization.
The team consists of Fadhya Chania, Rina Afifah, Inna Sri Utami, and Dzaki Maulana Asif under the guidance of Dr. Ari Dwi Nugraheni.
“Coffee grounds, often considered waste, have great potential as a resource that can be utilized. In this research, coffee grounds are converted into activated carbon through optimized processes,” said Inna Utami.
“This activated carbon is then used as an adsorbent, a material capable of absorbing chemicals in household wastewater.”
This adsorbent can effectively remove pollutants such as heavy metals, organic compounds, and other hazardous chemicals, especially in the abundantly produced wastewater.
“The application of activated carbon from coffee grounds as an adsorbent can be an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution,” Inna Utami added.
“The success of this research contributes to mitigating environmental issues and creates new opportunities for more sustainable waste management and resource utilization.”
This research creates innovative research opportunities and illustrates UGM’s commitment to research that positively impacts society.
The team received funding from the Ministry of Education and Culture in the research. According to Utami, this step shows that the government appreciates students’ efforts and contributions in bringing innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
This funding enables the UGM team to continue their research, optimize activated carbon production, and measure its impact on domestic wastewater treatment.
The success of the UGM team in this program is a source of pride and a step forward in realizing sustainability and innovation at the local and national levels.
This research is expected to inspire other students to engage in research that benefits society and the environment in tangible ways.
Through hard work, creativity, and collaboration, students demonstrate that innovative solutions to environmental challenges can be found around us, even in often-overlooked coffee grounds.
“With the right support, research like this has the potential to change the waste management paradigm and support efforts toward a sustainable future,” Utami concluded.
Author: The Coffee Ground Research Team
Editor: Gloria