Increasing the Added Value of Used Cooking Oil by Turning it into Aromatherapy Candles in Gubeng Village

Meningkatkan Nilai Tambah Minyak Jelantah Menjadi Lilin Aromaterapi di Kelurahan Gubeng

Abstract

Waste Cooking Oil causes environmental and health risks if improperly disposed or reused. This issue prompted students of Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jawa Timur initiative titled “Waste to Wax,” conducted by group 56 of Kuliah Kerja Nyata Tematik (KKN-T) Bela Negara Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) called “Karsalaras” in RW 3, Gubeng Sub-district. The activity aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of waste cooking oil while introducing an eco-friendly and economically beneficial alternative by converting the waste oil into aromatherapy candles. The program involved 23 participants consisting of PKK and Kader Surabaya Hebat (KSH) members. It consisted of two main activities. The first was an educational session explaining the negative impacts of waste cooking oil including environmental pollution and potential health hazards. The second was a hands-on workshop where participants were taught how to create aromatherapy candles using simple tools and ingredients that are easy to obtain from e-commerce platforms or local markets, such as soy wax, essential oils, and charcoal for deodorizing the oil. As a result, participants gained both environmental awareness and practical skills that can support small-scale home industries. Post-activity, several participants showed interest in continuing the practice and potentially marketing the products. This initiative demonstrates the potential for sustainable community empowerment through creative waste management.