A recent community service initiative by the University of Panca Bhakti (UPB) Pontianak is empowering local farmers in the Sungai Adong village of West Kalimantan, Indonesia, with sustainable agricultural techniques. The program, which began in July 2025 and is set to conclude in October 2025, is a collaboration between the university and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology.

The project is driven by a team of UPB academics and students, including Dr. Nurbani, Dr. Agustina, Dr. Edi, Heriyani, M.Sc., and Dwi Kurniawan. They are instructing farmers on creating and utilizing two key organic soil amendments: biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More and organic compost. These materials are being promoted as effective alternatives to conventional chemical fertilizers.

The training highlights the dual benefits of these methods: improving soil quality and reducing the environmental and financial costs associated with synthetic products. Farmers are being taught how to produce these amendments from readily available local materials, such as rice husks and plant waste. This not only makes the process economically viable but also helps manage agricultural waste.

One of the program’s key aims is to enhance local food security by promoting more resilient and productive farming systems. The team is also teaching participants how to package and market the resulting compost and biochar, creating a potential new income stream. This holistic approach supports both agricultural and economic development in the region.

The initiative demonstrates a practical application of sustainable science, directly addressing the challenges faced by local farming communities and offering them a path toward more environmentally friendly and profitable practices.

SOURCE: PKM UPB Pontianak Latih Petani Kelola Pertanian Berkelanjutan