TRAINING ON ECO-ENZYME PRODUCTION FROM VEGETABLE WASTE AS AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FERTILIZER FOR WOMEN FARMER GROUPS

Abstract

Organic waste generated from traditional markets and household activities continues to pose environmental challenges due to inadequate waste management practices. In Mulyojati Village, Metro City, large quantities of vegetable waste are commonly discarded without further utilization, causing unpleasant odors and environmental pollution. In addition, members of the Women Farmer Group (Kelompok Wanita Tani/KWT) had limited knowledge regarding the conversion of organic waste into value-added products. Therefore, this community service program aimed to improve participants’ knowledge and practical skills in producing eco-enzyme from vegetable waste as an environmentally friendly liquid fertilizer. The program was implemented through participatory training consisting of socialization sessions, demonstrations, hands-on practice, mentoring, and evaluation activities. The participants were members of KWT RW 003 Mulyojati Village, Metro Barat District, Metro City. Training materials covered the benefits of eco-enzyme, raw material preparation, fermentation procedures, and practical applications in agriculture. The results indicated that participants actively engaged throughout the training process and successfully produced eco-enzyme using locally available vegetable waste. Participants demonstrated improved understanding of organic waste management and recognized the environmental and economic benefits of eco-enzyme production. Furthermore, the activity promoted environmentally responsible behavior and encouraged the utilization of household organic waste for sustainable agriculture. This program concludes that eco-enzyme training is an effective community empowerment strategy for improving environmental awareness, strengthening practical skills, and supporting sustainable waste management practices among women farmer groups.