Turning Waste into Energy: Book Discussion at GMLAF 2024 Unveils Innovative Solutions for the Future

Yogyakarta, August 21, 2024 - The Gadjah Mada Library and Archives Fair (GMLAF) once again presented one of its series of events, a book discussion titled "Waste to Energy: Waste Treatment Technology into Energy." This event took place in the Seminar Room, 2nd floor of Building L1, Gadjah Mada University (UGM) Library and Archives, and attracted the attention of the participants in attendance.

The book discussion began with remarks from the Head of UGM Library and Archives, Arif Surachman, S.IP., MBA. In his speech, Arif Surachman emphasized the importance of innovation in waste management in the modern era, particularly through technology capable of converting waste into renewable energy sources. He also highlighted the role of libraries and archives as centers of knowledge that can support the development of sustainable solutions for society.

The book being discussed, "Waste to Energy: Waste Treatment Technology into Energy," was authored by Prof. Ir. Arief Budiman, MS., D.Eng., IPU. The book delves into the technology of converting waste into energy, a topic highly relevant in the face of today's complex waste issues. Before the discussion session began, Prof. Arief Budiman provided an overview of the various technologies discussed in his book, such as Landfill Gas (LFG), biogas, incineration, pyrolysis, and gasification. Each of these technologies has its own advantages and challenges in the context of converting waste into energy.

Following this, Ir. Wiratni, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., IPM, as the reviewer, highlighted the strengths of the book. She mentioned that the book is highly beneficial for stakeholders, especially in understanding the latest waste treatment technologies. One key point raised was the potential for processing organic waste, which accounts for about half of Indonesia's total waste, using technologies like Landfill Gas and biogas. She also touched on waste processing at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST) as an example of successful technology implementation.

The next reviewer, Prof. Chandra Wahyu Purnomo, S.T., M.E., M.Eng., D.Eng, added an in-depth presentation on thermal technologies such as incineration, pyrolysis, and gasification. According to him, these thermal technologies excel in reducing waste volume by up to 90%, but require waste separation at the source to optimize the process and reduce costs. He also emphasized that thermal methods should be the last resort after applying the 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) in waste management.

This event not only discussed the technical aspects of waste processing but also highlighted the importance of socio-economic and educational approaches in creating a sustainable waste management system. The book discussion contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 13 on Climate Action, as well as encouraging collaboration among parties in line with SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.

Through this event, public understanding and participation in waste management can be enhanced, while also making a tangible contribution to efforts in addressing global climate change.

Contributor : Ruth Grace Sophie