Project Overview

The Waste to Gold project aims to revolutionize waste management at Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) by collecting, sorting, and processing waste from all UMM properties. This innovative initiative will convert bio-waste into biochar fertilizer for local farmers using PlasmaTerra technology, while transforming inorganic waste into low-volume ash or construction materials.

Current Challenges

1. Lack of proper waste segregation at source

2. Limited awareness about waste management among students and staff

3. Insufficient infrastructure for waste processing

4. High costs associated with traditional waste management methods

5. Environmental concerns related to improper waste disposal

Project Impact

1. Reduce UMM's waste footprint by up to 90%

2. Provide local farmers with affordable, high-quality biochar fertilizer

3. Create new revenue streams from waste-derived products

4. Enhance UMM's reputation as a leader in sustainable campus management

5. Serve as a model for other universities and institutions in Indonesia

UMM Properties Involved

1. Main Campus (Campus III)

2. Campus I (Study Program and Physiotherapy Profession)

3. Campus II (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences)

4. UMM Hospital

5. UMM Dome

6. UMM Hotel

7. UMM Medical Center

8. UMM Gas Station

9. Sengkaling Recreation Park

Project Components

1. Waste Collection: Implement a comprehensive waste collection system across all UMM properties.

2. Sorting Facilities: Establish efficient sorting centers to separate bio-waste from inorganic waste.

3. PlasmaTerra Biochar Production: Convert bio-waste into high-quality biochar fertilizer for local farmers.

4. Inorganic Waste Processing: Transform inorganic waste into low-volume ash or construction materials.

5. Community Engagement: Collaborate with local farmers and construction companies to utilize the end products.

Scaling Potential

Once the Waste to Gold project proves successful at UMM, it can be scaled to:

1. Other universities in Malang and East Java

2. Municipal waste management systems in surrounding cities

3. Industrial parks and large corporate campuses

4. Expansion to other regions in Indonesia facing similar waste management challenges

By addressing the critical issue of waste management, the Waste to Gold project demonstrates UMM's commitment to environmental sustainability and community development. This innovative approach not only solves a pressing problem but also creates value from waste, truly turning it into "gold" for the benefit of the university and the local community.