Community Empowerment through the Utilization of Used Cooking Oil to Produce Coffee-Scented Aromatherapy Candles in Balun Village

Abstract

The management of used cooking oil at the household level remains an environmental issue requiring attention, including in Balun Village, Wanayasa District, Banjarnegara Regency. Improperly managed used cooking oil poses a risk of environmental pollution; however, utilizing it as a raw material for non-food products can generate both utility and economic value. This community service initiative aims to raise public awareness regarding used cooking oil management while imparting practical skills to transform it into coffee-scented aromatherapy candles a product reflecting Wanayasa's local potential. The activity employed a participatory approach involving local housewives. The stages of the initiative included situational observation and analysis, outreach and socialization, demonstrations, hands-on practice, packaging guidance, and monitoring and evaluation. Observations revealed that households in Balun Village generate an average of 300–500 ml of used cooking oil per week, indicating a significant potential supply of raw material for productive use. The initiative received a positive response, evidenced by the participants' enthusiasm, active discussion, and engagement throughout the training process. Transforming used cooking oil into coffee-scented aromatherapy candles offers a waste management alternative while creating opportunities to develop creative economy products based on local potential. This activity serves as a starting point for fostering more sustainable waste management practices and community-based ecopreneurship in Balun Village.