Universitas Andalas Develops Eco-Friendly Ink Innovation for the 2024 Election in line with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)

Universitas Andalas has developed an eco-friendly ink innovation intended for use in Indonesia’s 2024 general election, representing a significant advancement in sustainable technology in line with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). This innovation demonstrates how research can directly support national needs while promoting environmental responsibility.

The innovation was developed by researchers at Universitas Andalas who focused on creating a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional election ink, which is commonly used to mark voters’ fingers as proof of participation.

Unlike conventional ink that may contain chemical substances, this eco-friendly ink is derived from natural materials, particularly gambir, a local commodity widely produced in West Sumatra. This not only ensures environmental safety but also promotes the utilization of regional resources.

The development process involved extensive laboratory research, formulation testing, and quality assurance to ensure that the ink meets national standards in terms of durability, visibility, and safety for human use.

In addition to its environmental benefits, the innovation also contributes to local economic development by increasing the value of gambir as a raw material and encouraging its broader industrial application.

Through this breakthrough, Universitas Andalas demonstrates its strategic role in bridging research and real-world application, supporting sustainable innovation while contributing to national electoral processes and environmentally responsible production practices.