Supporting SDG 7 and SDG 12: Universitas Andalas Transforms Leaf Waste into Sustainable Biomass Energy

Padang — Universitas Andalas continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable innovation by developing technology that converts leaf waste into biomass residue, contributing to the achievement of SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). This initiative highlights the role of higher education in providing sustainable solutions for organic waste management while generating alternative energy sources for industry.

The university has successfully processed leaf waste into dry biomass residue that can be utilized as an alternative fuel. This biomass product has been used by PT Semen Padang as a partial substitute for coal in its production processes.

Air Pollution Control expert from Universitas Andalas, Dr. Fadjar Goembira, explained that the initiative aims to support industry in reducing dependence on fossil fuels. “This leaf waste is processed into dry biomass residue that can be used by PT Semen Padang to replace a portion of coal,” he stated.

Currently, Universitas Andalas is still in the trial phase of biomass processing while preparing additional equipment for further conversion into pellet-based fuel. From two experimental runs, the team has successfully produced approximately 1.3 tons of dry biomass residue from leaf waste collected across the campus.

The processing utilizes the TOSS (Local Waste Processing Technology) method, which involves drying the biomass residue using bioactivators, followed by shredding and pelletizing to produce biomass fuel in pellet form suitable for industrial use.

“Through TOSS, we aim to meet the minimum specifications required by industry,” he added.

Dr. Fadjar further highlighted that the use of biomass from leaf waste provides both tangible and intangible benefits. Tangibly, the alternative fuel has economic value depending on its quality and calorific content. Intangibly, it contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by partially replacing fossil fuels.

Through this innovation, Universitas Andalas continues to strengthen its contribution to sustainable waste management technologies while supporting the transition toward cleaner and more environmentally friendly energy systems.