Pemanfaatan Minyak Jelantah Menjadi Lilin Aromaterapi sebagai Inovasi Produk Ramah Lingkungan di Masyarakat Desa Jatipuro

Abstract

Used cooking oil is a household waste that is often discarded without processing, potentially polluting soil and water bodies due to its oxidation compounds. This community service program aims to empower the residents of Jatipuro Village to transform used cooking oil into aromatherapy candles as an eco-friendly product innovation and a creative economic opportunity. The method employed was a qualitative approach with an action research design encompassing planning, action, observation, and reflection cycles. Data were gathered through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with PKK women and culinary entrepreneurs, documentation, and focus group discussions. The results showed an increase in community awareness, shifting from a basic understanding of health impacts to a deeper comprehension of environmental pollution hazards. Through socialization and purification demonstrations using natural adsorbents (activated charcoal and banana peels), residents successfully mastered candle molding and packaging techniques. Despite facing obstacles such as the rancid odor of the oil and limited hardening materials, residents are now able to manage waste productively. In conclusion, this program successfully shifted community behavior toward waste management and holds the potential to become a distinctive village green commodity if supported by sustainable institutional development.

Keywords : Used cooking oil, aromatherapy candles, creative economy, community empowerment, environmentally friendly products.