University of Mataram Tests Technology to Convert Waste into Clean Energy

The University of Mataram has commenced testing portable biodigester technology capable of converting organic waste into clean biogas energy, in an effort to reduce the build-up of organic waste filling landfill sites in the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) region.

University of Mataram Rector Sukardi stated that the technology serves not only as a means of research and learning but also as a tangible solution for organic waste management within the campus environment.

“Over the next few months, we will monitor and evaluate the performance of the portable biodigester to ensure the technology can operate optimally and sustainably,” he said in a statement in Mataram on Wednesday.

Sukardi explained that the portable biodigester is the result of a collaboration between the University of Mataram, the NTB Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA), and the Rumah Energi Foundation, offering an environmentally friendly alternative for organic waste management.

He elaborated that the portable biodigester works by processing organic waste into biogas that can be utilised as an energy source.

Beyond producing gas, the technology also yields derivative products that can be reused to support the implementation of a circular economy.

“The portable biodigester is part of our commitment to realising a green energy-oriented campus,” he said.

Head of the NTB Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA), I Gede Putu Aryadi, said the innovation has the potential to become an alternative for organic waste management that can be applied more widely across the region.

According to Aryadi, one of the advantages of the portable biodigester technology is its ability to monitor gas production digitally, making the operational process more measurable and efficient.

BRIDA NTB is prepared to facilitate the strengthening of the innovation ecosystem through collaboration with universities, businesses, and small and medium-sized industry players (IKM), including promoting the technology’s use in the food and agro-industry sectors.

“This step is taken so that research outcomes do not stop at the academic stage, but are able to generate sustainable economic, social, and environmental benefits,” concluded Aryadi.