The research was led by Teofilo Amaral Sarmento from the National University of Timor Lorosa'e (UNTL), in collaboration with Fidelis Anggara Murdani Kolin from Satya Wacana Christian University, Indonesia. Conducted in Aldea Karungulau, Dili, the study addresses a critical environmental issue: the common practice of discharging untreated tofu waste into local waterways, which causes water pollution and unpleasant odors.
Turning Pollutants into Nutrients
The tofu industry generates massive amounts of liquid waste rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. If left unmanaged, these organic compounds decompose, increasing harmful pollutant levels in community water sources. However, hidden within this potential pollutant are high levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—essential nutrients for plant life.
"Utilizing tofu industry wastewater as liquid organic fertilizer is an alternative for both waste management and the sustainable supply of nutrients in tropical agricultural systems," the researchers stated in their report.
The Science Behind EM-4 Technology
To transform hazardous waste into readily absorbable nutrients, the research team utilized Effective Microorganisms-4 (EM-4) technology. A 15-day fermentation process, enriched with molasses (sugar cane byproduct), successfully stabilized the organic compounds and increased nitrogen availability.
Laboratory analysis showed impressive results:
- Nitrogen Content: Reached 5.52%, meeting high-quality standards for liquid organic fertilizer.
- Phosphorus Content: Measured at 5.95%, effective for supporting root development.
- Potassium Content: At 4.74%, providing stability for plant resilience.
- Acidity (pH): Maintained at 5.6 (slightly acidic), which aids in the solubility of iron and zinc for plants.
Visible Results on Pak Choy Crops
In trials involving various fertilizer concentrations (ranging from 5% to 30%), Pak Choy plants showed a remarkable growth response. Plants treated with this organic liquid fertilizer significantly outperformed the control group, which received only plain water.
Key findings from the study include:
- Plant Height: A 30% concentration resulted in plants reaching 18.86 cm, far exceeding the untreated plants, which only grew to 8.67 cm.
- Number of Leaves: Increased significantly from an average of 9 leaves to 13 leaves per plant.
- Canopy Width: The most dramatic increase was seen in the canopy width, reaching 26.52 cm at the highest concentration, indicating a much more optimal photosynthetic capacity.
Impact on Society and the Environment
This success offers a breath of fresh air for farmers in Timor-Leste who have long been dependent on expensive chemical fertilizers. Beyond being more economical, the use of tofu-based fertilizer improves long-term soil quality by increasing soil organic carbon levels from a "low" to "high" category.
In terms of public policy, this innovation offers a dual-purpose solution: cleaning the environment from tofu industrial pollution while simultaneously supporting food security through the production of healthier, more productive vegetables.
Author Profiles:
- Teofilo Amaral Sarmento, M.Sc.: Lecturer at the Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Education and Humanities, National University of Timor Lorosa'e (UNTL). Expert in biology and science education.
- Fidelis Anggara Murdani Kolin, M.Si.: Researcher from Satya Wacana Christian University (UKSW) Salatiga, Indonesia, specializing in agricultural biotechnology and applied microbiology.
Research Source:
Sarmento, T. A., & Kolin, F. A. M. (2026). Growth Response and Yield of Pak Choi (Brassica Rapa L. Chinensis) in Response to the Application of EM-4-Based Liquid Organic Fertilizer Derived from Tofu Waste in the Agroecosystem of Timor-Leste. International Journal of Advance Social Sciences and Education (IJASSE), 4(1), 37-54.
DOI:
0 Komentar