Food Security Archives - SDGs Center

Universitas Airlangga Tackles Food Waste to Support Food Security and Sustainable Campus Initiatives

Admin SDGS — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:20:55 +0000

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) is pioneering food waste management to bolster food security and reduce hunger on campus, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger). This ongoing initiative is part of UNAIR’s commitment to monitoring and reducing food waste, directly addressing issues of food insecurity by optimizing food resources.

UNAIR actively tracks food waste generated across its campus dining services, both in-house and outsourced, and collects data annually to ensure effective resource allocation. In 2023, food waste levels were recorded 24 tonnes, a serving a campus population of 40,657 students and staff. This consistent tracking and measurement of food waste allows UNAIR to adjust food provision, reduce excess, and increase efficient food distribution, ultimately helping prevent unnecessary loss and promoting responsible consumption.

The university has also implemented a series of measures to repurpose food waste, contributing to food security through following key initiatives:

Campus Compost House

Opened in collaboration with UNAIR’s environmental study group, the Compost House converts food waste into fertilizers and animal feed, turning potential waste into resources for food production. The Compost House has also become an educational site, teaching students and staff about importance of sustainable food waste practices. Learn more about the Compost House here

Maggot Farming as Organic Waste Solution

UNAIR employs maggot farming to decompose organic food waste, creating sustainable by-product that can support food production, reducing pressure on local food resources. This innovative solution helps in breaking down organic material efficiently and contributes to local food security.

Educational Campaigns to Prevent Food Waste

Collaborative Initiatives and Outreach

Through partnerships with UNAIR’s Department of Environmental Engineering and Environmental Community Group, UNAIR engages in projects to educate and collaborate with local communities on sustainable food waste practices, sharing knowledge that can aid broader community food security. More information on these initiatives is available here and here.

These efforts affirm UNAIR’s dedication to combating food insecurity and improving food security at multiple levels, from campus to community. By investing in sustainable management, reducing food waste, and supporting innovative food waste solutions, UNAIR showcases its commitment to SDG 2, advancing food security as a central part of its mission.

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Universitas Airlangga’s Comprehensive Program to Combat Student Food Insecurity

Admin SDGS — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 10:23:52 +0000

In concerted effort to address student food insecurity and foster a supportive campus environment, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has implemented a robust program aimed at ensuring students have reliable access to nutritious meals. Recognizing the challenges some students face in meeting their daily nutritional needs, UNAIR is actively working to alleviate food insecurity through various meal distribution initiatives, aligned with the university’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger).

Each year, as part of its Dies Natalis celebrations marking the university’s anniversary, UNAIR distributes more than 25,000 meals to students across its campuses. This annual tradition is part of UNAIR’s comprehensive approach to directly addressing food insecurity on campus and promoting student well-being.

In addition to these annual efforts, UNAIR has established a weekly food distribution program. Every Friday, over 1,000 food packages are distributed at the campus mosque, providing additional support to students in need. This weekly initiative has become a staple on campus, offering no only meals but also a reminder of the university’s commitment to their well-being.

During the holy month of Ramadhan, UNAIR intensifies its food security efforts by providing more than 500 daily meals for both iftar (breaking fast) and suhoor (pre-dawn meal) across all campuses. This support ensures that students observing the fast have access to nourishing meals, especially during a period when food costs and demand may be higher.

UNAIR’s programs go beyond meal distribution; they symbolize a commitment to a nurturing campus culture that recognize and addresses the challenges of food insecurity. By actively students access meals, UNAIR contributes to building a sustainable and compassionate, embodying the principles of SDG 2 and setting a standard for other institutions to follow.

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Universitas Airlangga Empowers Local Farmers and Fish Producers with Knowledge and Technology to Enhance Food Security

Admin SDGS — Wed, 24 May 2023 05:51:17 +0000

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) is making significant contributions to local food security and sustainable agriculture by equipping farmers and fish producers in East Java with essential knowledge, skills, and technological support. To promote sustainable farming practices and enhance productivity, UNAIR has implemented tailored programs to assist communities in Kedungpring Village, Lamongan and Pasuruan Regency with resources for eco-friendly agricultural practices and modern fish farming techniques.

Sustainable Farming with Bio-Fertilizers

In collaboration with the Tani Abadi Farmers’ Group in Kedungpring Village, Lamongan, UNAIR has introduced bio-fertilizer technology to help reduce the dependency on chemical fertilizers. This initative involves a comprehensive program where 17 farmers receive hands-on training on bio-fertilizer production, application, and monitoring. Bio-fertilizers, created from organic and sustainable materials, offer a nutrient-rich solution that helps maintain soil fertility, improve crop yields, and reduce environmental impact.

The program follows a structured approach of introduction, training, and regular monitoring to ensure the successful adoption of bio-fertilizers. UNAIR’s agricultural experts provide ongoing guidance, addressing challenges and ensuring that farmers understand both the benefits and the practical application of bio-fertilizers. This support is part of UNAIR’s broader commitment to promoting environmentally sustainable practices and enhancing food security in the region. One participating farmer shared, “With UNAIR’s guidance, we have significantly reduced our chemical fertilizer use, improving our soil’s health and making our farms more sustainable.”

Innovative IoT Technology for Fish Farming

In Pasuruan Regency, UNAIR has introduced Internet of Things (IoT) technology to optimize fish farming and water management practices in freshwater ponds. This technology, developed by UNAIR’s Faculty of Advanced Technology and Multidisciplinary, provides real-time data on irrigation and water quality, allowing fish farmers to monitor and manage pond conditions with greater accuracy and efficiency. The IoT system measures key variables such as water pH, temperature, and oxygen levels, ensuring optimal conditions for fish growth.

The IoT technology implementation has been welcomed by local fish farmers, who benefit from better control over water quality and a reduction in fish mortality rates. By utilizing this modern technology, fish farmers can address issues promptly, optimize feeding schedules, and reduce waste, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and profitable fish farming operation. UNAIR’s technology experts continue to support the farmers in Pasuruan through training and technical assistance, ensuring that they can leverage this technology effectively for long-term success.

Commitment to Sustainable Development and Food Security

These initiatives align with UNAIR’s dedication to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2), which focuses on ending hunger, achieving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture. By providing local farmers and fish producers with practical skills and advanced technology, UNAIR empowers these communities to adopt eco-friendly practices that support long-term food security and environmental health.

Through these programs, UNAIR exemplifies its commitment to creating a sustainable future for local communities, helping farmers and fish producers improve productivity while reducing their environmental impact. For more information on UNAIR’s initiatives to support sustainable food practices and enhance community resilience.

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