From Organic Waste to Poultry Feed: Semolowaru Community Embraces Sustainable Innovation

SURABAYA — What was once considered ordinary vegetation and yard waste is now becoming a valuable resource for poultry farming in RW 08 Semolowaru. Through a community empowerment program, members of the Elok Green Lestari Community have begun learning how to transform locally available organic materials into feed supplements using a newly introduced feed chopper machine.

The initiative was implemented by Sub Group “Lingkungan 2” from May 16 to June 21, 2026, under the supervision of Dr. Merline Eva Lyanthi, S.H., M.Kn. Team members include Herlini Sanika Rahmawati, Ferdynan Budi Prayoga, Moch Rafi Taufiqurrahman, and Muhammad Azriel Firzatulloh.

The highlight of the program took place on June 7, when residents attended a socialization and training session followed by the official handover of the machine.

Throughout the event, participants closely observed demonstrations showing how leaves and organic plant materials could be processed into smaller particles suitable for poultry feed mixtures. The sound of the machine operating attracted attention from nearby residents, many of whom stopped to observe the process and ask questions.

Before the intervention, poultry farmers within the community relied heavily on commercial feed products. Meanwhile, leaves and plant materials generated from neighborhood maintenance activities were often discarded or left to decompose naturally.

“This technology gives us a new perspective,” said Pak Sudirman. “We now realize that materials around us can be used productively. The machine is practical, easy to operate, and suitable for our community.”

Participants expressed particular interest in the machine’s ability to process organic materials quickly and consistently. Several residents commented that the technology could help reduce feed expenses while contributing to cleaner environmental management.

Dr. Merline Eva Lyanthi highlighted the environmental benefits of the program during her remarks.

“Community empowerment should go hand in hand with environmental stewardship. By utilizing local organic resources, communities can reduce waste while supporting sustainable livestock farming,” she stated.

According to team member Moch Rafi Taufiqurrahman, the machine was selected because of its simplicity and compatibility with community needs.

“We wanted a solution that could be operated easily by residents while providing direct economic and environmental benefits,” he explained.

The event ended with the distribution of operational guidebooks and a discussion regarding future implementation strategies. Community members expressed optimism that the technology would encourage greater utilization of local resources and reduce dependence on external feed supplies.

As the program continues through June 21, organizers hope the initiative will serve as a model for community-based environmental innovation and sustainable poultry farming.

Authored by Ferdynan Budi P

Mechanical Engineering

Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya