Program Book for Sustainability Challenge 2023

FROM TEAPOT TO WATER’S SAVIOR: UNLEASHING THE POTENTIAL OF TEA LEAVES RESIDUE FOR SYNTHESIS OF ZINC OXIDE PHOTOCATALYST AAA Mutaliba , TAM Torlaemaa NF Jaafara a School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains, Malaysia, [email protected], +601137492663 To ameliorate the global quality of life, the UN world leaders have established a blueprint namely the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in 2015 comprising 17 goals of different themes including world economy, social justice, environment, etc. Among the goals, there is one dedicated exclusively for the “Clean Water and Sanitation”, emphasizing the importance of sustaining the availability and proper management of clean water resources. However, based on the current situation, striding toward achieving this goal is quite a challenge considering the amplifying issue of global water depletion. By the year 2050, it is estimated that more than half of the global population will face water scarcity at least once a month [1]. Among all the recognized factors, water pollution is one of the major reasons that aggravate this issue. While water demand soars in tandem with global population growth, pollution further deprives clean water resources [2]. According to statistics, the annual disposal of sewage and other effluents is 730 million tons [1]. Meanwhile, industrial discharge emits at least 300 megatons of wastewater annually, with over 80% of the total being unattended. Furthermore, given the current rate of growing contaminants lists (persistent organic pollutants (POPs), inorganic materials, macroscopic pollutants, etc.) water pollution will skyrocket, adversely affecting not only sustainable development but also global well-being in general. As a result, the necessity for an ideal water treatment becomes increasingly pressing. Various water treatment technologies have been proposed to reduce the intensity of the water scarcity issue but unfortunately, most of them are hampered by high costs and complicated procedures [3][4]. Regardless, there is one specific water remediation method that has been outlined with the most potential attributed to its advantages such as being cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and straightforward which is, the Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) with the aid of semiconductor photocatalyst [5]. Briefly, in the presence of light, the photocatalyst will harvest the light energy to trigger the generation of potent oxidants that are responsible for the conversion of organic pollutants into green products. Among the photocatalysts utilized, most of the previous literature agreed that ZnO is one of the most efficient alongside being abundant and cheaper than its counterpart TiO2 [4,6,7]. Still, certain matters need to be considered to enable the employment of ZnO in large-scale photocatalyst synthesis. Particularly, the aspect of fabrication method which often involves a step-wise process and the application of synthetic chemicals that can generate additional pollution. Therefore, for greener and more sustainable photocatalyst synthesis, this study proposed a simple, automated, yet hazardous-free electrochemical approach. As compared to other fabrication routes, the

electrochemical method offers a straightforward synthesis without complicated procedures [8]. Most importantly, the automaticity feature of this synthesis technique offers a brilliant prospect for largescale photocatalyst production. However, the conventional electrochemical synthesis of ZnO is generally conducted using non-eco-friendly organic solvents and chemicals as the electrolyte medium [9–11]. In regards, this work therefore proposes a novel modification of the electrochemical synthesis method by replacing the non-ecofriendly electrolyte medium with cheap and abundant plant waste extract, which is tea leaves residue extract. The selection of this waste extract was inspired by the large consumption of tea worldwide, generating abundant tea leaves residue. Being the second most consumed beverage after water, it has been estimated that in 2020, global tea consumption reached up to 6.7 billion kilograms and is predicted to surge in 2050 with 7.4 billion kilograms consumption [12,13]. Most of the time, the final fate of tea residue is at the landfill which is unfortunate considering the negative environmental impacts including the risks of unprompted combustion and polluting gas emissions. Recognized as among the wastes that contain a rich number of bioactive components i.e., polyphenols, myricetin, flavonols, kaempferol, and quercetin, tea leaves residue’s fate actually can be rerouted as the functional electrolyte medium based on the ability of the components to exert the role as reducing or stabilizing agent for facilitating and controlling the formation of ZnO [13,14]. In this research work, the preparation of tea leaves residue extract was accomplished using a simple aqueous-based extraction method where an amount of tea residue was dissolved in water and heated at 60 ℃ followed by a filtration step to obtain the extract. Then, the resultant extract was employed as the electrolyte medium in an electrochemical setup consisting of anode (Zn plate) and cathode (platinum plate) connected to a DC power supply. The concept is that when the electrical energy flows throughout the system, the oxidation of the Zn plate will occur, releasing Zn2+ ions into the electrolyte. The Zn2+ ions then undergo complexation with the free hydroxyl groups (from the electrolysis of water), producing Zn(OH)2 at the same time, stabilized by the natural biocomponent in the tea leaves residue extract. The Zn(OH)2 was then calcined in a furnace to yield the ZnO photocatalyst. After the synthesis, the ZnO photocatalyst was subjected to several physicochemical characterizations including scanning electron microscopy (SEM, for surface morphology), X-ray diffraction spectrometer (XRD, for purity and crystal structure), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS, for light adsorption capacity), Bruneau-Emmett-Teller (BET, for surface textural analysis) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR, for functional group identification). To inspect the photocatalytic performance, the green synthesized ZnO was subjected to the degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenol, a persistent and toxic chlorophenol derivative found in water bodies due to their application in agricultural industries. The photodegradation reaction was carried out in a photocatalytic reactor equipped with 4 visible light sources and set up at ambient temperature. The reaction conditions were pH 3, 0.019 g catalyst, 30 ppm initial pollutant concentration and 450 min

reaction duration. For comparison purposes with the synthesized ZnO, the commercial ZnO catalyst was also employed in all the characterization and photocatalytic activity evaluations. Interestingly, the experimental results demonstrated that the green synthesized ZnO has a higher photodegradation capacity than the commercial ZnO. Only 62±1.24% 2,4-dichlorophenol managed to be degraded by ZnO commercial which was significantly lower than the synthesized ZnO using tea leaves residue extract (90±1.8% degradation). Based on the physicochemical characterization data obtained, the involvement of the active bio constituents in the tea leaves residue extract may contribute to such findings. The FTIR result evidenced the involvement of bioactive component in the ZnO formation based on the existence of bands associated with polyphenols functional groups alongside the stronger intensity of characteristic Zn-O bond bands of as-synthesized ZnO than in the ZnO commercial. This implied the role of the natural reducing agent from the tea leaf residue extract in assisting the formation of the ZnO. Besides, the BET textural analysis also revealed that the green synthesized ZnO has a much larger surface area (9.576 m2 g -1 ) than the commercial ZnO (0.140 m2 g -1 ). In photocatalysis, a larger surface area can maximize the photocatalytic activity due to enhanced active site exposure during the degradation reaction [15]. At the same time, the UV-vis DRS analysis also revealed that the synthesized ZnO manifested an enhanced light adsorption capacity referring to the lower band gap energy obtained (3.20 eV) compared to commercial ZnO, 3.29 eV. The semiconductor photocatalyst with a smaller band gap has been interlinked with the ability to absorb a wider range of light wavelengths hence improving its reactivity in visible light irradiation [16]. It was believed that the participation of bioactive components had contributed to the intrinsic crystal defects occurrence, which then lowered the band gap energy of the ZnO [17]. Finally, the purity of the ZnO was indicated by the conformation of the synthesized ZnO with the standard wurtzite ZnO diffraction crystallinity profile, further indicating the successful synthesis of the tea leaves residue-mediated ZnO. The findings attained hereby demonstrated that the integration of waste material into the ZnO fabrication is not only advantageous in terms of cost-efficient, green, and simple but also beneficial in improving photocatalytic degradation performance. Furthermore, this study may help to trigger the future strides towards the eco-friendlier photocatalyst generation technology so that, the future AOP wastewater treatment technology would not be obstructed by the application of the hazardous and toxic chemicals emission from the synthesis process itself. With the proper utilization of the functional natural components from the waste, the consumption of raw natural resources can be minimized as well. Overall, it is aimed that this study will further inspire the respected material science research community to prioritize the exploitation of waste material as a sustainable asset for future wastewater treatment applications.

References [1] A. Boretti & L. Rosa. 2019. Npj Clean Water, 2, 1-6. [2] H.R. Dihom, M.M. Al-Shaibani, R.M.S. Radin Mohamed, A.A. Al-Gheethi, A. Sharma, & M.H. Bin Khamidun. 2022. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 47, 102705. [3] K.V. Plakas & A.J. Karabelas. 2012. Desalination, 287, 255–265. [4] C.B. Ong, L.Y. Ng, & A.W. Mohammad. 2018. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 81, 536–551. [5] J. Low, J. Yu, M. Jaroniec, S. Wageh, & A.A. Al-Ghamdi, J X Low, J.G. Yu, S. Wageh, A.A. Al-Ghamdi, M. Jaroniec. 2017. Heterojunction Photocatalysts. [6] W. Bahnemann, V.K. Landge, C.-M. Huang, V.S. Hakke, S.H. Sonawane, S. Manickam, & M.- C. Hsieh. 2022. Catalysts, 12, 605. [7] Q. Wang, Q. Yuan, Z. Liu, R. Jin, Y. Cui, & S. Gao. 2018. Separation and Purification Technology, 194, 216–221. [8] A.A.A. Mutalib & N.F. Jaafar. 2023. Environmental Chemistry Letters, 21, 981–1003. [9] N.F. Khairol & N. Sapawe. 2018. Materials Today: Proceedings, 5, 21936–21939. [10] S.T. and A.A.J. N. Sapawe1, N.F Jaafar, N.H.H. Hairom, M.A.H Satar, & M.N Ariffin. 2011. Journal of Fundamental Sciences, 6, 104–110. [11] N. Sapawe, A.A. Jalil, S. Triwahyono, R.N.R.A. Sah, N.W.C. Jusoh, N.H.H. Hairom, & J. Efendi. 2013. Applied Catalysis A: General. Complete, 144–158 [12] D.S.W. Rajapaksha & N. Shimizu. 2020. Food Science & Nutrition, 8, 4297–4307. [13] S.A. Abdeltaif, K.A. Sirelkhatim, & A.B. Hassan. 2018. Recycling, 3, 27. [14] S. Gargi, S. Nilanjan, N. Moutusi, & M. Subhasis. 2020. Archive of Food and Nutritional Science, 4, 001–009. [15] A. Kaur, G. Gupta, A.O. Ibhadon, D.B. Salunke, A.S.K. Sinha, & S.K. Kansal. 2018. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 6, 3621–3630. [16] H. Jia, M. Dong, Z. Yuan, J. Chen, Z. Gong, & J. Shao. 2021. Ceramics International, 47, 23249– 23258. [17] D.A. Bopape, D.E. Motaung, & N.C.H.Mbita. 2022. Optik (Stuttgart), 251, 168459.

BOILER PREDICTION AND OPTIMIZATION TOOL FOR COAL-FIRED BOILER TOWARD NET-ZERO EMISSIONS STRATEGY N A W Mohd Noora , N Abdul Rahmanb , S Yusupa , J Mohd Alib aTNB Research Sdn. Bhd., No.1, Lorong Ayer Itam, Kawasan Institusi Penyelidikan, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia. [email protected], 013-5126107 bUniversiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia. [email protected], 01110731752 Coal-fired power plants are a major source of CO2 emissions, accounting for 35% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change [1]. However, coal-fired power plants are also play a significant role in the global energy mix, with the net electricity demand is expected to grow by 0.6% per annum from 2021 to 2030 [2]. It is important to meet the demand in an environmentally sustainable manner. Even though renewable energy is flourishing, its growth as a power sources will take several more years to reach the commercial stage [3]. Therefore, coal will remain as one of the main energy sources for at least 15 more years to fill the energy gap. By predicting and optimizing boiler performance, this initiative can work towards reducing the negative impacts of coal-fired power plants on the environment and human health [4]. Power plant operators face challenging tasks to operate their boiler at optimum performance. Insufficient post combustion data and insights from critical furnace areas such as furnace temperature makes combustion performance monitoring and optimization not only a challenging but also expensive task [5]. Current approach of relying on boiler tuning by original equipment manufacturer (OEM) was found to be the main gap in ensuring continuous, reliable and optimum operations. Boiler tuning or trouble shooting is not a prevention measure but a rather expensive solution to an incurred problem [6]. The cost involved is often an addition to the potential outage or maintenance cost to overcome the boiler operation issue. Therefore, coal-fired power plants are at risk of recurring issue due to this lack of data or information. The performance of a coal-fired power plant can be optimized by adjusting various boiler parameters depending on the boiler design and quality of the coals [7]. The current plant performance monitoring system continuously monitor a large number of operating parameters. The operating parameters have a non-linear and inter-dependent relationship to describe accurately the correct response of the combustion process [8]. The impact of coal quality and different operating conditions on boiler performance in coal-fired power plant have been a topic of interest in the research world for many years [9-13]. Although some research findings outline techniques to utilize coal cleanly and efficiently [9-11], several studies demonstrate a correlation between coal quality variations and

combustion performance [12-13]. The research involves predicting combustion behavior by using indices associated with the nature of coals. . Since studies in combustion optimization in a coal-fired power plant involved enormous amounts of data, the utilization of this data by using Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gained significant attention and provide a new perspective in combustion studies [14]. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a technology that enables a machine to simulate human behavior. It can be used to solve complex problem which is achieved through analyzing data and identifying patterns to replicate the behavior (e.g. problem-solving, learning and planning behavior). It has a huge advantage in finding hidden pattern under a massive amount of data [15]. In light of this situation, an intelligent interface is proposed to improve the current performance monitoring system in predicting and optimizing boiler performance. This research proposes the use of artificial neural networks (ANN) for predicting and improving the efficiency of coal-fired power plant boilers. A robust combustion monitoring and performance prediction tool which diagnoses, pinpoints boiler problems and empower troubleshooting to reduce maintenance time and optimize operations will be developed using MATLAB software. The study involves collecting and pre-processing data from a real power plant data. The pre-processing process will involve data cleaning, normalization, and feature selection. Then, ANN model for predicting boiler efficiency and emissions will develop, follow by optimizing the model to improve boiler efficiency and reduce emissions level. Model validation will be carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the model and comparing the results with existing methods. The use of ANN provides a promising approach for boiler prediction and optimization. The research aims to contribute to the development of more efficient and sustainable coalfired power plants. Improving the efficiency of the boiler not only can reduce greenhouse gas emissions but can also reduce coal consumption and plant’s forced outage occurrence. The expected result of this research include the development of an ANN model for predicting and optimizing boiler efficiency. This prediction and optimization tool will establish understanding on combustion response of different coal quality and operating condition, which enable interpretation of combustion outcome. This research will provide actionable recommendations based on the establish guideline. The outcomes from this research will be of significant value to energy industry towards net zero goal. The tool is expected to impact coal-fired power plants by providing a recommendation which will enable them to make informed decisions on adjustments to operation parameters, intervene or trouble shoot anomalies in performance characteristics.

References [1] Maamoun, N., Kennedy, R., Jin, X., & Urpelainen, J. (2020). Identifying coal-fired power plants for early retirement. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 126, 109833. [2] TNB Sustainability Report 2020 https://www.tnb.com.my/assets/annual_report/TNB_Sustainability_Report_2020.pdf [3] Dudin, M. N., Frolova, E. E., Protopopova, O. V., Mamedov, O., & Odintsov, S. V. (2019). Study of innovative technologies in the energy industry: nontraditional and renewable energy sources. Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Issues, 6(4), 1704. [4] Jiang, Y., Lee, B. H., Oh, D. H., & Jeon, C. H. (2021). Optimization of operating conditions to achieve combustion stability and reduce NOx emission at half-load for a 550-MW tangentially fired pulverized coal boiler. Fuel, 306, 121727. [5] Laubscher, R., & Rousseau, P. (2019). Numerical investigation into the effect of burner swirl direction on furnace and superheater heat absorption for a 620 MWe opposing wall-fired pulverized coal boiler. International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, 137, 506-522. [6] Shi, Y., Wen, J., Cui, F., & Wang, J. (2019). An optimization study on soot-blowing of air preheaters in coal-fired power plant boilers. Energies, 12(5), 958. [7] Rousseau, P., & Laubscher, R. (2020). Analysis of the impact of coal quality on the heat transfer distribution in a high-ash pulverized coal boiler using co-simulation. Energy, 198, 117343. [8] Ashraf, W. M., Uddin, G. M., Arafat, S. M., Afghan, S., Kamal, A. H., Asim, M., ... & Krzywanski, J. (2020). Optimization of a 660 MW e Supercritical Power Plant Performance—A Case of Industry 4.0 in the Data-Driven Operational Management Part 1. Thermal Efficiency. Energies, 13(21), 5592. [9] Zaid, M.Z.S.M., Wahid, M.A., Mailah, M., Mazlan, M.A. and Saat, A., 2019, January. Coal combustion analysis tool in coal fired power plant for slagging and fouling guidelines. In AIP Conference Proceedings (Vol. 2062, No. 1, p. 020028). AIP Publishing LLC. [10] Guo, L., Zhai, M., Wang, Z., Zhang, Y. and Dong, P., 2019. Comparison of bituminous coal and lignite during combustion: combustion performance, coking and slagging characteristics. Journal of the Energy Institute, 92(3), pp.802-812. [11] Yin, J., Liu, M., Zhao, Y., Wang, C. and Yan, J., 2021. Dynamic performance and control strategy modification for coal-fired power unit under coal quality variation. Energy, 223, p.120077. [12] Van Der Lans, R.P., Glarborg, P., Dam-Johansen, K., Knudsen, P., Hesselmann, G. and Hepburn, P., 1998. Influence of coal quality on combustion performance. Fuel, 77(12), pp.1317-1328.

[13] Aich, S., Behera, D., Nandi, B.K. and Bhattacharya, S., 2020. Relationship between proximate analysis parameters and combustion behaviour of high ash Indian coal. International Journal of Coal Science & Technology, 7(4), pp.766-777. [14] Xu, X., Chen, Q., Ren, M., Cheng, L., & Xie, J. (2019). Combustion optimization for coal fired power plant boilers based on improved distributed ELM and distributed PSO. Energies, 12(6), 1036. [15] Zhou, L., Song, Y., Ji, W. and Wei, H., 2022. Machine learning for combustion. Energy and AI, 7, p.100128.

BANASIL: GREEN COMPOSITE FOR TRUCK BODY PANEL M.A.Muslima , M.A.Jaafarb , J.M.Saidc a School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University Technology MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, ([email protected], +60193897364) b School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University Technology MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, ([email protected], +60192143148) c School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University Technology MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, ([email protected], +6 +60193885585) Sustainability has become an increasingly critical topic in our modern world. It encompasses a broad range of environmental, social, and economic concerns that are essential for the well-being of our planet and future generations. It delves into the understanding of using natural materials, presents concepts and ideas for incorporating these materials into composites, discusses the implementation process using basalt fiber and nano silica as nano fillers, outlines strategies for achieving the concept through a smart partnership with Carbon Tech Global Sdn Bhd, and identifies the impact of these ideas on society, country, and environment. Sustainability entails responsible resource management, conservation, and fostering a harmonious relationship between human activities and the natural world. It calls for a shift towards more sustainable practices that balance the needs of people, the planet, and economic development. Utilizing materials derived from nature is a fundamental aspect of sustainable practices. Natural fibers, such as jute, hemp, and flax, offer numerous advantages as composite reinforcements. These fibers are renewable, biodegradable, and possess a low carbon footprint compared to traditional synthetic fibers. By integrating natural fibers into composites, we can reduce dependence on non-renewable resources and minimize the environmental impact of composite production and disposal [1]. In the realm of composites, combining natural fibers with other sustainable materials like basalt and nano silica holds great potential. The concept involves harnessing the potential of natural fibers, basalt, and nano silica in composite materials. Basalt fibers, derived from volcanic rock, exhibit exceptional properties such as high strength, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance. When combined with natural fibers, they enhance the mechanical performance of composites while reducing their environmental footprint. Nano silica, a nanoscale material, can be used as a nano filler to improve the overall strength, durability, and fire resistance of the composites [2]. Implementing sustainable concepts and ideas requires a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, governments and policymakers should enact supportive legislation and regulations that incentivize sustainable practices. This can include tax incentives for renewable energy adoption, stricter emissions

standards, and promoting sustainable procurement policies. Secondly, education and awareness campaigns should be conducted to inform and engage individuals about the importance of sustainability. By empowering citizens with knowledge, they can make informed choices and actively participate in sustainable behaviors. Thirdly, collaborations between public and private sectors, as well as academia, are crucial for research and development of sustainable technologies and practices. Investing in innovation and fostering partnerships can accelerate the adoption of sustainable solutions. To implement the concept of sustainable composites, the incorporation of basalt fiber and nano silica as nano fillers is essential. Basalt fiber can be used as a reinforcement material alongside natural fibers, offering a combination of strength, stiffness, and thermal resistance. Nano silica, when added to the composite matrix, enhances the interfacial bonding between the fibers and the matrix, resulting in improved mechanical properties and durability [3]. To achieve successful implementation, smart partnerships with industry players are crucial. Carbon Tech Global Sdn Bhd, renowned for its expertise in composite materials, can be an ideal collaborator in this venture. This partnership would facilitate the exchange of knowledge, resources, and technology, enabling the development and commercialization of sustainable composites utilizing basalt fiber and nano silica. By combining research and industry expertise, we can expedite the adoption of these sustainable materials in various sectors, including automotive, construction, and aerospace [4]. The adoption of sustainable concepts and ideas can bring about transformative impacts. Societies will benefit from improved public health, enhanced quality of life, and greater social cohesion. Countries can achieve economic resilience through the creation of green jobs, increased energy security, and reduced healthcare costs associated with pollution-related illnesses. Moreover, embracing sustainability can help address climate change, mitigate environmental degradation, and protect biodiversity. By taking proactive steps, we can create a sustainable future where future generations can thrive in harmony with nature. The adoption of sustainable composites using natural fibers, basalt, and nano silica can yield significant benefits. Moreover, they can create opportunities for green jobs and stimulate economic growth, positioning the country as a leader in sustainable composite manufacturing. Environmentally, the use of natural fibers reduces the dependence on nonrenewable resources and decreases carbon emissions. Furthermore, the incorporation of basalt and nano silica enhances the durability and lifespan of composites, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste generation [5]. Sustainability is not merely a buzzword; it is a necessary paradigm shift in how we interact with the world around us. By understanding the essence of sustainability, embracing innovative concepts, implementing strategies, and considering their impact on society, the country, and the

environment, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. Let us collectively work towards creating a world where the needs of both present and future generations. The utilization of natural fiber, basalt, and nano silica in composites is a promising avenue towards sustainability in the materials industry. By incorporating these eco-friendly materials, we can reduce environmental impact, promote responsible resource utilization, and enhance the performance of composites. Smart partnerships with industry players, such as Carbon Tech Global Sdn Bhd, are instrumental in implementing these concepts and driving their adoption in various sectors. The impact of these sustainable composites extends to society, the country, and the environment, fostering safety, economic growth, and reduced carbon footprint. Let us embrace these innovative approaches to create a sustainable future for generations to come. References: [1] M. O. Alam, A. S. Ahmed, S. S. Islam, and R. S. Islam, "Natural Fiber Composites: A Sustainable and Eco-friendly Alternative for Future Engineering," in Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Electrical and Computer Engineering, Dhaka, Bangladesh, 2012, pp. 140-143. [2] V. H. Nguyen, Q. K. Pham, V. H. Tran, and S. Park, "Effect of nano-silica on the properties of hybrid composites: Basalt/carbon fiber reinforced epoxy laminates," Journal of Composite Materials, vol. 53, no. 16, pp. 2297-2310, 2019. [3] S. Agrawal, M. Goyal, and R. Choudhary, "Mechanical properties of hybrid composite materials using basalt and glass fibers," in Advances in Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, Singapore: Springer, 2020, pp. 585-594. [4] Carbon Tech Global Sdn.Bhd, [https://nct-global-sdnbhd.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral]. Available: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9XkysMtjBA] Accessed on: July 5, 2023. [5] S. Blümel, T. Stegmaier, and G. Elizondo, "Basalt fiber reinforced polymer composites— optimization of the production and properties," in Proceedings of the 21st International Conference on Composite Materials (ICCM-21), Xi'an, China, 2017, pp. 1-6.

STUDY OF THE POTENTIAL OF EUTECTOGEL FROM DURIAN SEED GUM AND NADES AS AN ELECTROLYTE Nurul Atiqa Binti Mohd Zainey, Iris Amira Binti Suhaimi, Arvin A/L Saravanan, Tang Yi Shen aUKM, Malaysia ([email protected], 0138037701) This study carries a profound sustainability impact as it seeks to tackle the pressing issue of durian seed wastage while simultaneously exploring innovative applications for solid-state polymer electrolytes in lithium metal batteries. Durian, a prized fruit recognized for its exceptional taste, aroma, and rich nutritional profile, holds a special place in the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, where it is predominantly grown. Despite their nutritional value, durian seeds frequently go underutilized, leading to waste, particularly in countries like Malaysia, where durian is a beloved culinary delight. This study, at its core, exemplifies the intersection of scientific innovation and environmental responsibility, offering a promising path towards optimizing resource usage, mitigating waste, and fostering a more sustainable future, not only for the durian industry but also for the broader realm of renewable energy and waste reduction initiatives. The unutilized durian seeds present a significant challenge, with potentially detrimental environmental consequences [1]. Discarded durian seeds can contribute to environmental pollution, and the volume of wasted seeds varies based on factors such as consumption rates and geographic locations. For instance, a report from Food Ingredients First highlights that during the first half of 2018, the residents of Singapore consumed an astounding 6 million durians, resulting in the disposal of approximately 3,600 tonnes of durian seeds in that year alone. Malaysia, another durian-loving nation, faces an estimated annual durian seed waste of about 350,000 metric tonnes [2]. Indubitably, this predicament underscores the urgency and potential for more efficient utilization of durian seeds. By repurposing these seeds for eutectogel production or as a key component in solid-state polymer electrolytes for lithium metal batteries, we can significantly reduce waste while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable energy storage technology. Additionally, this approach aligns harmoniously with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 – "Responsible Consumption and Production." By harnessing the untapped potential of durian seeds and utilizing them to enhance battery technology, we contribute to a more responsible and sustainable use of resources. Solid-state polymer electrolytes are a crucial factor in the use of high-safety and highdensity lithium metal batteries. Traditional polymer electrolytes that utilize polyethylene oxide (PEO) have low ionic conductivity. PEO, as the polymer matrix, possesses properties that hinder ion movement within it, resulting in relatively low ionic conductivity. However, efforts

are being made to enhance the ionic conductivity in PEO-based polymer electrolytes through approaches such as adding ionic salts like LiClO4 or LiCF3SO3, reducing the crystallinity of PEO, compacting the matrix structure, combining PEO with ion-conductive materials such as metal oxides or conductive polymers in the form of nanoparticles, and other methods. Research is underway to develop new polymer electrolytes with higher ionic conductivity, such as by synthesizing new conductive polymers and exploring the use of ionic liquid materials, although this has not yet been thoroughly studied. Therefore, this study is conducted to explore alternative uses for solid-state polymer electrolytes in batteries, such as lithium metal batteries. The main composition of durian seed gum is the content of polysaccharides. The high content of polysaccharides forms the "glue" of durian seed gum that is safe to eat [3]. In this study, we attempt to produce eutectogels from durian seeds and deep eutectic liquids (NADES) as alternative electrolytes. Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) are a sustainable and environmentally friendly innovation. These solvents consist of two or more components that remain in a solid state at room temperature but can transform into a liquid phase when combined in specific ratios. The components found in NADES, including sugars, alcohols, amino acids, organic acids, and choline derivatives, are integral to cellular structures. The "natural" classification of NADES stems from the fact that these components are primary metabolites occurring in nature. The sustainable impact of NADES extends beyond their fundamental composition. NADES have the remarkable capacity to enhance the solubility, stability, bioactivity, and bioavailability of target compounds, whether these compounds are hydrophilic (water-loving) or hydrophobic (water-repelling). This unique property has wide-reaching implications for various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and battery technology. By harnessing the natural capabilities of NADES, we are not only introducing a versatile tool for scientific advancement but also aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, this technology aligns with SDG 12, "Responsible Consumption and Production," by effectively utilizing otherwise wasted resources. In the context of this study, the utilization of durian seed waste to produce eutectogel contributes to waste reduction, thereby reducing the environmental impact associated with waste disposal. This sustainable approach, utilizing NADES-based eutectogels as electrolytes, offers the potential to create a positive environmental impact while advancing battery technology, exemplifying the harmony between innovation and sustainability. By exploring such innovative solutions, we contribute to a more environmentally conscious and responsible future.

The produced eutectogel demonstrates superior electrochemical performance compared to traditional solid-state polymer electrolytes. The advantages of this eutectogel include high ionic conductivity, good electrochemical stability, and smooth lithium flow. Conductivity is a measure of the ability of an electrolyte solution to conduct electricity [4]. Conductivity is measured with the SI unit of conductivity, which is Siemens per metre (S/m). This study also involves the use of eutectogel in lithium metal batteries (LiCoO2/Li), which exhibit a long lifespan and high Coulombic efficiency [5]. With the results of this study, there is significant potential to produce high-voltage and high-energy lithium metal batteries using solid-state polymer electrolytes based on eutectogel derived from durian seeds. Besides reducing durian seed wastage, the use of eutectogel provides a superior alternative to traditional solid-state polymer electrolytes. With this discovery, we can harness the potential of durian seeds and apply their advantages to future battery technology applications. Based on the outcomes of this conducted experiment, the eutectogel derived from the synergistic combination of NADES and durian seed gum has remarkably demonstrated a high conductivity value, measuring an impressive 14.58 mS/cm, all achieved with a precise material ratio of 1:1. This can be explained by the fact that when the volume of the solution increases, the number of ions per ml will decrease, and subsequently, the conductivity value will decrease [6]. The released hydrogen ions (H+) will act as carriers of charge and allow the flow of electric current through the solution [7]. From further studies, the manufacture of good eutectic electrolytes results from a mixture of methyl cellulose and ethyl cellulose with NADES solution [8]. This extraordinary achievement positions the eutectogel as a prime candidate for utilization as an electrolyte, thus presenting a novel avenue to indirectly replace traditional electrolyte materials in batteries. The significance of this discovery resonates deeply within the framework of sustainability. By repurposing durian seed waste for such a technologically advanced purpose, we actively align ourselves with the principles of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12, which is dedicated to "Responsible Consumption and Production." This initiative addresses the critical need for responsible resource usage and environmental stewardship, placing particular emphasis on waste management. Through the innovative application of durian seed waste as a key component in the eutectogel, we're not only minimizing waste but also mitigating the environmental impact associated with waste disposal. This pioneering approach embodies a circular economy mindset, demonstrating how seemingly unused resources can be harnessed to fuel advancements in battery technology while contributing to our collective responsibility for sustainable consumption and production practices.

In essence, this study represents a remarkable convergence of scientific progress, sustainability, and responsible resource management. As we continue to explore and refine the potential of eutectogel-based electrolytes, we take a significant stride towards a greener and more sustainable future where waste reduction, energy storage innovation, and environmental consciousness coalesce in pursuit of a better world.

References [1] S. Baraheng and T. Karrila, “Chemical and functional properties of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) seed flour and starch,” Food Biosci, vol. 30, Aug. 2019, doi: 10.1016/J.FBIO.2019.100412. [2] J. Y. Chua, K. M. Pen, J. V. Poi, K. M. Ooi, and K. F. Yee, “Upcycling of biomass waste from durian industry for green and sustainable applications: An analysis review in the Malaysia context,” Energy Nexus, vol. 10, p. 100203, Jun. 2023, doi: 10.1016/J.NEXUS.2023.100203. [3] B. T. Amid, H. Mirhosseini, and S. Kostadinović, “Chemical composition and molecular structure of polysaccharide-protein biopolymer from Durio zibethinus seed: extraction and purification process,” Chem Cent J, vol. 6, no. 1, p. 117, Oct. 2012, doi: 10.1186/1752-153X-6-117. [4] M. Rayung et al., “Bio-Based Polymer Electrolytes for Electrochemical Devices: Insight into the Ionic Conductivity Performance,” Materials 2020, Vol. 13, Page 838, vol. 13, no. 4, p. 838, Feb. 2020, doi: 10.3390/MA13040838. [5] H. Zhang et al., “Cyanoethyl cellulose-based eutectogel electrolyte enabling highvoltage-tolerant and ion-conductive solid-state lithium metal batteries,” Carbon Energy, vol. 4, no. 6, pp. 1093–1106, Nov. 2022, doi: 10.1002/CEY2.227. [6] W. Zhang, X. Chen, Y. Wang, L. Wu, and Y. Hu, “Experimental and Modeling of Conductivity for Electrolyte Solution Systems,” 2020, doi: 10.1021/acsomega.0c03013. [7] K. J. Atkins, P. W., de Paula J., “Physical Chemistry, 11th ed,” Oxford University Press, Oxford, p. 944, 2017. [8] H. Zhang et al., “Cyanoethyl cellulose-based eutectogel electrolyte enabling highvoltage-tolerant and ion-conductive solid-state lithium metal batteries,” Carbon Energy, vol. 4, no. 6, pp. 1093–1106, Nov. 2022, doi: 10.1002/CEY2.227.

LIGNIN-DERIVED OIL PALM BIOMASS AS SUSTAINABLE CARBON FIBRE PRECURSOR N R A Amrana , M K F M.Asrarb , A L Sazalic , S K Amrand , K T L Yonge,f aUniversiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering Technology (UniKL MICET), Melaka, Malaysia ([email protected], +601126560114) bUniversiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering Technology (UniKL MICET), Melaka, Malaysia ([email protected], +60138249616) cUniversiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering Technology (UniKL MICET), Melaka, Malaysia ([email protected], +60137442254) dUniversiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering Technology (UniKL MICET), Melaka, Malaysia ([email protected], +60167223917) eCentre for Women Advancement and Leadership, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia fUniversiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering Technology (UniKL MICET), Melaka, Malaysia ([email protected],+60122685306) Industrial strategists, economists, and policymakers are interested in advanced materials because of their impact on various industries. Carbon fibre, with its high strength-to-weight ratio, is a sought-after component in many industries, including aerospace, construction, automotive, and machine tool manufacturing. Carbon fibre is manufactured entirely (96%) from polyacrylonitrile, a polymer derived from fossil fuels, with the remaining 4–6% originating from rayon, petroleum, and coal-tar pitch [1]. A comparison of carbon fibre derived from lignin and other polyacrylonitrile-based precursors concluded that lignin is the most cost-effective carbon fibre precursor at USD 6.3/kg in comparison to melt-spun polyacrylonitrile (USD 23.7/kg) and conventional polyacrylonitrile (USD 34.6/kg) [2]. Carbon-based fossil fuels have significantly contributed to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming, with greenhouse gas emissions projected to exceed 45 Gt by 2035 [3,4]. Carbon dioxide, a primary greenhouse gas, increases global warming [4,5]. Therefore, converting lignocellulosic biomass into high-value products is crucial for reducing emissions and relying on fossil fuels [6]. There has been a surge in carbon fibre consumption because of the demand for lightweight composites. Developing cheaper and more sustainable alternatives to fossil-based resources is essential because of the high production costs associated with their use. Therefore, an alternative precursor that is more environmentally friendly, cheaper, and has properties similar to those of the existing precursors is required. Lignocellulosic biomass, primarily composed of carbohydrates and lignin, is renewable because of its availability and carbon neutrality [7]. Lignin is an excellent organic carbon source due to its environmentally friendly properties, such as being renewable, biocompatible, degradable, and low-cost. Oil palm is a major crop in Malaysia because it thrives in tropical environments. Every year, the milling industry generates millions of tons of waste, such as mesocarp fibre, empty fruit bunches, palm kernel shells, oil palm fronds, and oil palm trunks; hence, it is a major contributor to biomass

supply [8]. Oil palm waste is either burned for energy recovery or left to degrade naturally in plantations after being produced during milling. These inefficient management practices contribute to an increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Lignin-derived oil palm biomass can substitute pitch and polyacrylonitrile as carbon fibre precursors. However, their properties, which vary according to biomass source and extraction process, severely limit their use. Lignin-carbohydrate complexes formed by lignin and hemicellulose intermolecular linkages are the most challenging aspects of biomass fractionation [9]. Although lignin is the most prevalent aromatic biopolymer, its potential as a precursor in the synthesis of carbon fibres has not been well investigated. This is because lignin is a heterogeneous polymer with highly stable linkages and structural complexity of lignocellulosic compounds. Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) have attracted significant interest for use as "green solvents." DESs contain at least one hydrogen bond donor (HBD) and a hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) and form a transparent liquid eutectic mixture between 60C and 80°C [10]. DES has a substantially lower melting temperature than its constituents owing to the hydrogen-bonding network formed between them and the associated charge delocalisation [11]. Due to their simple preparation, low cost, low toxicity, high biodegradability, and large-scale applicability, DESs have been utilised in numerous processes, such as metal extraction, biocatalysis, carbon dioxide capture, and biodiesel synthesis [12]. Choline chloride (ChCl), a biodegradable and low-cost compound used in agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, is often used as HBA. ChCl-based DESs are readily biodegradable, implying strong prospects for broader applications [13]. Lactic acid is ideal as a HBD because it can be obtained with superior properties via biomass glucose fermentation. The integration of lactic acid into biomass processing in a single process makes it an attractive, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly raw material. Consequently, low-cost, nontoxic, and economically sustainable DESs can be produced. Previous DES-mediated oil palm biomass fractionation studies have mainly focused on lignin removal for recovering cellulose and hemicellulose [9,14–16]. Nevertheless, alpha carboxylic functional groups such as lactic acid can effectively extract lignin from oil palm biomass [14]. Hence, further investigation of ChCl and lactic acid as HBA and HBD for lignin extraction from oil palm frond (OPF) and empty fruit bunch (EFB) is essential. Additionally, the fundamental properties of lignin-derived oil palm biomass, such as particulate matter content, carbon content, purity, ash content, volatile matter content, glass transition temperature, and average molecular weight, are vital for determining its viability as a carbon fibre precursor. This study investigated lignin-derived oil palm biomass (OPF and EFB) using ChCl-based DES and its fundamental properties to establish its viability as a carbon fibre precursor [17,18]. Increasing the lactic acid molar ratio resulted in more active protons, which facilitated the proton-catalysed

breakdown of lignocellulose linkages, resulting in increased solubility (49.42–66.12%) of the biomass in DES and lignin yield (74.94–98.42%) with comparable phenolic hydroxyl group (PhOH) content (1.37–6.5 mmol/g). The high lignin purity (81.21–89.97%) demonstrates that the ChCl-based DES can dissolve lignin-carbohydrate bonds and eliminate carbohydrates in lignin. The lower purity of lignin at higher temperatures and longer reaction times is likely attributable to the subsequent degradation of polysaccharides and the dissolution of non-lignin compounds, mainly hemicellulose. The ash content (0.99–3.00%) was due to the condensation of degraded ash with intermediates. The high volatile matter content (16.25–36.53%) was due to the high average molecular weight of the volatile lignin macromolecules formed by ash condensation with reaction intermediates. A high molar ratio of lactic acid (1:10) contributed to the volatiles by inducing porosity in the structure, owing to cell wall rupture. The particulate matter content (6.46–14.33%) decreased significantly with increasing temperature due to polysaccharides covalently bonded to lignin and reduced cellulose breakdown. The correlation between particulate matter and carbon content (42.88–56.83%) was significant. Similar trends of glass transition temperature (72.62–80.87C) and average molecular weight (2221–5900 g/mol) with temperature and reaction time demonstrated a strong correlation between these fundamental properties. Overall, the lignin produced was high purity, with an average Mw and Tg appropriate for application as carbon fibre precursors [19–21]. The use of lignin as a carbon fibre precursor is a sustainable approach because of the various factors related to its sourcing, processing, and overall environmental impact. Lignin is a byproduct of various industries, including pulp and paper production, agriculture, and biofuel manufacturing. When sourced from sustainably managed forests or agricultural residues, such as oil palm biomass, lignin can be a renewable resource, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Using lignin as a carbon fibre precursor can provide valuable use for a material that is often considered waste in industries such as pulp and paper. This contributes to the waste reduction and resource efficiency. The carbon footprint of ligninderived carbon fibres can be lower than that of traditional carbon fibres, which are typically derived from fossil fuels. Lignin is a naturally occurring substance that can degrade over time. Although carbon fibres themselves are not biodegradable, using lignin-derived precursors might potentially improve the overall biodegradability of composite materials. Furthermore, lignin-derived carbon fibres could contribute to a circular economy by utilising waste streams and creating products with extended lifecycles. Lignin-derived biomass will provide a crucial linkage towards advancing Frontier Technologies and Advanced Manufacturing in tandem with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Malaysia National Green Technology Master Plan (2017–2030). Lignin-derived oil palm biomass has tremendous potential as the starting core for synthesising functional carbon materials, such as carbon fibre and highly advanced materials with diverse industrial applications. This study

provides a basis for developing strategies for near-, medium-, and long-term options effective for utilising lignin. References [1] A. Bengtsson, P. Hecht, J. Sommertune, M. Ek, M. Sedin, & E. Sjöholm. 2020. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 8, 6826–6833. [2] W. Fang, S. Yang, X. L. Wang, T.Q. Yuan, & R.C Sun. 2017. Green Chemistry, 19, 1794–1827. [3] M. Umar, X. Ji, D. Kirikkaleli, & A.A. Alola. 2021 Journal of Cleaner Production, 285, 124863. [4] Y. Qureshi, U. Ali, & F. Sher. 2021. Applied Thermal Engineering, 190, 116808. [5] S. Pérez, E. Del Molino, & V.L Barrio. 2019. International Journal of Chemical Reactor Engineering, 17, 20180238. [6] T. Rashid, S.A.A. Taqvi, F. Sher, S. Rubab, M. Thanabalan, M. Bilal, & B. ul Islam. 2021. Fuel, 293, 120485 [7] J.M. Ha, K.R. Hwang, Y.M. Kim, J. Jae, K.H. Kim, H.W. Lee, J.Y. Kim, & Y.K. Park. 2019. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 111, 422–441. [8] S.K. Loh. 2017. Energy conversion and management, 141, 285–298. [9] Y.T. Tan, G.C. Ngoh, & A.S.M. Chua. 2018. Industrial crops and products, 123, 271–277. [10] Y.L. Loow, E.K. New, G.H. Yang, L.Y. Ang, L.Y.W. Foo, & T.Y. Wu. 2017. Cellulose, 24, 3591–3618. [11] F. Soltanmohammadi, A. Jouyban, & A. Shayanfar. 2021. Chemical Papers, 75, 439–453. [12] Y. Liu, J. Xue, X. Zhou, Y. Cui, & J. Yin. 2021. Royal Society Open Science, 8, 201736. [13] D. Smink, A. Juan, B. Schuur, & S.R. Kersten. 2019. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 58, 16348–16357. [14] Y.T. Tan, G.C. Ngoh, & A.S.M. Chua. 2019. Bioresource technology, 281, 359-366. [15] Y.W Sai, & K.M. Lee. 2019. Cellulose, 26, 9517–9528. [16] A.M. Tajuddin, S. Harun, M.S. Sajab, S.I. Zubairi, J.M. Jahim, M. Markom, M.TM. Nor, M.A. Abdullah, & N. Hashim. 2019. International Journal of Engineering & Technology, 8, 266–274. [17] A.L. Sazali, S.K. Amran, M.R. Anuar, K.F. Pa’ee, & T.L.K. Yong. 2023. Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, 1–14. [18] A.L. Sazali, S.K. Amran, M.R. Anuar, K.F. Pa’ee, & T.L.K. Yong. 2023. Malaysian Journal of Analytical Sciences, 27, 471–487. [19] S.K. Amran, A.L. Sazali, K.F. Pa’ee, M.R. Anuar, & T.L.K. Yong. 2023. Malaysian Journal of Analytical Sciences, 27, 231 – 241. [20] A.L. Sazali, N. AlMasoud, S.K. Amran, T.S. Alomar, K.F. Pa'ee, Z.M. El-Bahy, T.L.K Yong, & L.F. Chuah. 2023. Chemosphere, 139485. [21]S. K. Amran, A. L. Sazali, M. Z. Sabri, N. Abd Talib, K.F. Pa'ee, S.H. Teo, & K.T.L. Yong. 2022. Materials Science Forum (Vol. 1077, pp. 145-151). Trans Tech Publications Ltd

SUSTAINABLE MICROWAVE REACTOR FOR BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM DAIRY WASTE SCUM OIL Siti Aminah Mohd Joharia , Muhammad Ayouba a Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar 32610, Perak, Malaysia ([email protected], 011-23705557; [email protected], 014-7466748) Significant research and innovation in the fields of renewable energy and sustainable technology have been sparked by rising concerns about the environment and the need to minimize dependency on fossil fuels. This situation can be proven by the world total primary energy consumption of 604 exajoules in 2022 where oil, natural gas and coal are the major consumption (494 exajoules) [1] which shows that the world still depending on the fossil fuels. Thus, it is crucial to spread the sustainability awareness according to United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to the public. The definition of sustainability is innumerable but not any interpretation are endorsed and appropriate but best justified as “lasting” [2]. As for our understanding, sustainability captures a fundamental idea that highlights the complex interaction between long-term viability, human needs and environmental health which in line with the SDGs. The goal of sustainability is to preserve a delicate balance in which the resources we use are renewed at a pace that is at least as high as our consumption. The resulting dynamic equilibrium aims to make sure that the future generations will be able to meet their requirements and does not jeopardize by our activities today. In term of environmental, to ensure the sustainability, the feedstock utilization must be green and originate from renewable sources such as agricultural crops, biomass and organic wastes. Also, the production process needs to be zero or least carbon emission to reduce pollution of our mother nature. In order to be sustainable, one must consider the larger context. It is important to promote social fairness and economic development in addition to environmental protection to maintain the balance between people, planet and profit. Plus, we must minimize the waste and utilize resources wisely including using strategies like consumption reduction, recycling, and upcycling. One of the concepts on sustainability is utilizing renewable energy such as solar power, wind, ocean waves etc. as energy source in any desired process. We also would like to propose an idea by creating products with longer lifecycles and developing closed-loop processes where materials are consistently reused, remanufactured, or recycled and in addition to low carbon emission. Due to economy profit is one of the sustainability goals, the feedstock and technology must be affordable and low cost or free of charge. In another term, this idea is known as circular economy [3].

To implement the concept and ideas of the sustainability, we are establishing the targeted goal which are decreasing waste from kitchen or industrial and generating green biofuel known as biodiesel. This method can address the problems like abundance of waste and promote the transitioning from finite fossil fuels to renewable and clean energy as well as reduce the greenhouse gaseous (GHGs) emission which in line with 7th SDGs [4]. Next, we will be carrying out an assessment and planning on the biodiesel production from dairy waste by discovering the sustainability improvements that are necessary. This assessment leads to a plan to build a pilot scale size of reactor (i.e., microwave) connected with solar power on a removable cart to ensure mobility and capable to generate or synthesis biofuel and low-cost catalyst. The connection with solar panel will provide more sustainability as we do not use the conventional electricity. While for waste management, we would like to establish a recycling system for the waste including food waste, oils, industrial (dairy) waste and many mores where most part of it can be utilized as biodiesel feedstock. One of the strategies to achieve our concept and ideas is by conducting thorough environmental impact evaluations is essential to ensuring that the biofuel production process complies with sustainable principles and laws. Efforts should also be made to actively promote the use of renewable energy sources. To create awareness and promote the use of renewable energy, this can be accomplished through strategic involvement with the press, social centers, and educational establishments. In addition, documenting all data that applicable and suitable from laboratory-scale analysis on parameters influencing biodiesel production from dairy waste scum oil (DWSO) could enable the identification of optimal conditions for achieving high biodiesel yields. Next, we can develop a reactor model using chemical processes simulation software ensures the creation of an efficient design tailored to specific requirements. To bring this concept to reality, collaboration with a company specializing in sustainable infrastructure is advisable for the construction of the sustainable microwave reactor, preferably integrating solar panels for enhanced sustainability. Progressing from laboratory to pilot-scale reactor, the biodiesel production process should be meticulously executed based on the optimized conditions. Last but not least, rigorous testing and characterization of the produced biodiesel, aligned with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and European Standard (EN), guarantee its quality and compliance with the established norms. Based on the suggested concept and ideas, there are a few impacts to the society, country and environment that can be elaborated. For society, the significance can be seen in term of transportation where the biodiesel has the potential to replace conventional diesel which leads to lower cost and able to experience good quality of biodiesel such as better efficiency in combustion [5], [6]. Plus, skilled labor is needed for the construction and maintenance of solar panel microwave reactors, which could lead to job possibilities in the renewable energy and biodiesel manufacturing industries. While for country, the effect is more into energy consumption where the electricity usage will be decreased as

the sustainable microwave reactor only consume solar energy to operate. This situation capable of enhance the energy independency of the country which increase the energy security and possible to reduce sensitivity towards the fluctuations of price in global oil markets. Finally, the influence of the biodiesel production via sustainable reactor to the environment include pollution reduction specifically in air as the GHGs emission will be lesser and nearly no emissions of carbon when the engine is operating. Moreover, the problem of waste management will be most likely reduced as the production of biodiesel needs the waste for the conversion of triglycerides to fatty acid methyl ester (FAME). In short, the inventive idea of generating biodiesel from dairy waste scum oil using a solar microwave reactor shows great potential for concurrently handling many issues. This approach demonstrates the amazing interconnection of managing waste, environmental protection, and the use of renewable energy sources. We might carry in another phase of ecologically responsible and commercially successful energy generation by converting dairy waste into a valuable resource and processing it into biodiesel using a microwave reactor driven by renewable energy sources. References [1] L. Fernández, “Global primary energy consumption 2019-2022, by fuel,” Statista, 2023. [2] M. A. Rosen, “Chapter 2 - Renewable energy and energy sustainability,” M. E. H. Assad and M. A. B. T.-D. and P. O. of R. E. S. Rosen, Eds., Academic Press, 2021, pp. 17–31. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-821602-6.00002-X. [3] “What is a Circular Economy?,” United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2023. https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/what-circular-economy (accessed Aug. 24, 2023). [4] “Sustainable Development Goals,” United Nations Development Programme, 2023. https://www.undp.org/sustainable-developmentgoals?gclid=Cj0KCQjw3JanBhCPARIsAJpXTx4DS71cl3TC4NtbfHF26Tl8r6uPODY3vVZFJ QWIRJFN-chdUywy7V4aAhcdEALw_wcB (accessed Aug. 24, 2023). [5] I. B. Bankovi, I. J. Stojkovi, O. S. Stamenkovi, and V. B. Veljkovic, “Waste animal fats as feedstocks for biodiesel production,” vol. 32, pp. 238–254, 2014, doi: 10.1016/j.rser.2014.01.038. [6] M. Balat and H. Balat, “Progress in biodiesel processing,” Appl. Energy, vol. 87, pp. 1815– 1835, 2010, doi: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2010.01.012.

ECO BLOOM OASIS: CULTIVATING SUSTAINABILITY IN MICROENVIRONMENT THROUGH RENEWABLE ENERGY Thelugu Novah Mary Gurulooa, Vennan Michaelb, Kamisah Osmana*, a Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia [email protected] b Open University Malaysia, Malaysia [email protected] a* Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia [email protected] *corresponding author The interplay between sustainability, renewable energy, and the environment has evolved into a pivotal dynamic that holds the key to fostering a harmonious and resilient world in the current era fueled by Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR4.0) [1]. As mankind faces a slew of concerns, from climate change to resource depletion, integrating these three factors has taken on enormous importance. The complicated web of sustainability, renewable energy, and the environment weaves a story of optimism and progress in our quest of a peaceful and resilient world. When communities, companies, and nations embrace this interaction, they begin on a path that goes beyond short-term profits and sees long-term benefits, redefining prosperity [2]. This path is more than a decision; it is a duty we have to present and future generations. The interaction between sustainability, renewable energy, and the environment has become a guiding light, blazing a road towards a world in which peace between humans and nature is no longer a distant dream but an actual reality. The "Eco Bloom Oasis" project initiative captures this confluence by combining renewable energy sources with water management practises to produce a selfsustaining habitat for plant growth. As a result, this goes into the project's many facets, emphasising its connection with sustainability principles, creative methodology, and larger consequences for society, the country, and the environment from microenvironments. Sustainabily incore: Basically sustainability is a fundamental concept that emphasizes harmonizing present needs with future generations' well-being. It involves environmental, social, and economic dimensions, emphasizing the importance of responsible resource management and avoiding environmental degradation. Malaysia, a tropical nation with abundant natural resources, faces unique sustainability challenges due to its rich biodiversity, fragile ecosystems, and vulnerability to climate change. To make sustainability a priority, a multifaceted approach is essential, including education, awareness campaigns, and promoting sustainable practices through incentives, regulations, and public-private partnerships [3]. Malaysia's commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can also drive change at scale. Integrating sustainability into educational curricula, corporate practices,

and public discourse further solidifies its importance in the national psyche [4], [5]. By fostering responsible practices at the grassroots level, the microenvironment becomes a catalyst for positive change that resonates outward. Concept of "Eco Bloom Oasis” Project: The "Eco Bloom Oasis" project is a visionary concept of sustainability that addresses pressing environmental challenges by integrating renewable energy, water conservation, and ecological stewardship. The project aims to revolutionize water management by reducing human intervention in manual water filtration. By harnessing the sun's abundant energy through renewable solar panels, the self-regulating irrigation system efficiently powers the water filtration process and subsequent irrigation activities. This innovation marks a watershed moment in the journey toward sustainable living, conserving water and minimizing energy consumption. The integration of renewable solar energy serves as a testament to the project's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while ensuring a continuous supply of energy for essential processes. The "Eco Bloom Oasis" project redefines the relationship between humans and their natural surroundings, addressing the needs of both humans and plants. By fostering a greener microenvironment, the project inherently addresses the needs of both humans and plants, enhancing their growth and vitality. This sustainability-driven approach benefits both humans and the environment, as reduced water wastage leads to lower utility bills and a sense of environmental responsibility among individuals. Hence, the "Eco Bloom Oasis" project represents a shift in how we engage with our surroundings, conserving water and energy while nurturing a harmonious coexistence between humans and the natural world. This project embodies the essence of sustainability, paving the way for a greener, more resilient future. Implementation and Strategies: The "Eco Bloom Oasis" project is a groundbreaking example of combining innovative technology with sustainability objectives. It combines renewable energy, water conservation, and automated irrigation to create a dynamic and self-sustaining microenvironment. The solar-powered filtration system, powered by solar panels, reduces reliance on conventional energy sources and contributes to a reduced carbon footprint in Malaysia's tropical climate. The automated irrigation mechanism also offers potential for water conservation, minimizing water wastage and promoting environmental preservation. The project's holistic approach to sustainability acknowledges local climate dynamics, optimizes solar energy utilization, and promotes water efficiency. The project's scalability potential showcases its adaptability in various microenvironments, setting a precedent for sustainable

gardening practices in tropical regions like Malaysia. The project's scalability potential demonstrates its adaptability in various microenvironments, paving the way for a more sustainable and greener future. Impact on Society, Country, and Environment: The "Eco Bloom Oasis" project is a significant initiative that aligns with Malaysia's shared prosperity vision for 2030 [6]. It addresses sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental challenges, transforming microenvironments and contributing to Malaysia's holistic development agenda [4], [5]. The project offers an automated and self-regulating gardening solution, reducing water bills and improving the quality of life for urban dwellers. The adoption of solar power contributes to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, promoting a sustainable energy future and financial relief for households. The water conservation component aligns with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, ensuring accessibility to all. Nationally, widespread implementation of the "Eco Bloom Oasis" project can lead to a collective reduction in energy demand, alleviating pressure on the power grid. This aligns with Malaysia's shared prosperity vision, which seeks to optimize resource utilization and enhance energy security. The project's fusion of renewable energy and water management aligns with the vision's goal of ensuring a sustainable future for Malaysia's citizens. Environmentally, the "Eco Bloom Oasis" project supports Malaysia's mission to combat climate change and enhance environmental sustainability and resilience. By fostering self-sufficiency, embracing renewable energy, and promoting sustainable practices, the project represents Malaysia's journey towards holistic development and shared prosperity for all citizens. Ultimately, "Eco Bloom Oasis: Cultivating Sustainability in Microenvironment through Renewable Energy" is more than a project; it is a paradigm change in sustainable gardening practises. It combines technical innovation with environmental care by utilising solar energy for water purification and self-irrigation. This project exemplifies the critical need to integrate renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainable living practises. As we face current issues, initiatives like "Eco Bloom Oasis" point the way to a more sustainable and bright future, in accordance with UNESCO's SDGs and the worldwide drive towards a greener tomorrow. References [1] A. Jamwal, R. Agrawal, M. Sharma, V. Kumar, and S. Kumar, “Developing A sustainability framework for Industry 4.0,” in Procedia CIRP, Elsevier B.V., 2021, pp. 430–435. doi: 10.1016/j.procir.2021.01.129. [2] G. Crosling, G. Atherton, M. Shuib, A. A. Rahim, S. N. Azizan, and M. I. M. Nasir, “The Teaching of Sustainability in Higher Education: Improving Environmental Resilience in Malaysia,” 2020, pp. 17–38. doi: 10.1108/s2055-364120200000022002.

[3] W. K. Chiu, B. Y. F. Fong, and W. Y. Ho, “The Importance of Environmental Sustainability for Healthy Ageing and The Incorporation Of Systems Thinking In Education For A Sustainable Environment,” Asia Pacific Journal of Health Management, vol. 17, no. 1, 2022, doi: 10.24083/apjhm.v17i1.1589. [4] R. Iyengar and C. T. Kwauk, “ESD in Malaysia,” in Curriculum and Learning for Climate Action, BRILL, 2021, pp. 261–275. doi: 10.1163/9789004471818_017. [5] P. Balakrishnan, “ESD in Malaysia,” in Curriculum and Learning for Climate Action, BRILL, 2021, pp. 261–275. doi: 10.1163/9789004471818_017. [6] Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ekonomi, “Wawasan kemakmuran Bersama 2030,” 2019.

SUSTAINABLE 3D ELECTRODE FROM COMBINING CORN STEMCARBON NANOTUBES AND MICROALGAE FOR BIOELECTRICITY AND BIODIESEL PRODUCTION Lidia Pradista Putri swastikaa, Talitha Zafira Harjudib a Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, [email protected] b Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, [email protected] 1. Introduction Global warming have inclined the countries to take advantage of renewable energy resources. Sediment Microbial Fuel Cells (SMFCs) are frequently characterized by bioelectricity output. SMFC indicated can provide a new electron acceptor in an anaerobic environment. The system commonly has lower electron transfer, diffusion limitations between bacteria and the anode limit the bioelectricity production. Most SMFCs anodes are flat electrodes, the consequence is biofilm can only grow on their surface (colonizing the interior of the anode is difficult). Therefore, 3D macroporous electrodes have been used in SMFCs because they have more active sites for microorganism attachment, enabling bacterial internal colonization, enhancing the electron transfer process, and more efficient substrate transport. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been used in anode modification for enhancing electrochemical performance without affecting biocompatibility. The maximum output voltage of SMFC with CNT-modified graphite felt is 29.65% higher than that of SMFC without CNT modification. A 3D macroporous electrode with CNT modification can combine the large surface area of 3D macroporous materials with the high conductivity of CNTs. Corn stem (CS) as a natural source was selected as biomass material to create 3D electrodes using the direct carbonization method. CNT was modified on the CS electrode via an electrochemical deposition method [3]. Incremental demand for electricity has inclined the countries to take advantage of renewable energy resources that are used in it is diesel. Diesel could be supplied from fossil fuel as non-renewable energy sources (non-renewable). Biodiesel is a fatty acid alkyl ester (FAAE) that is produced by transesterification reaction between triglycerides and alcohol with catalyst, such as acid, base, or enzyme. Biodiesel has been performed due to its lower environmental impact, feasible options to solve the aforesaid problem as it is renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic. Biodiesel can be produced from microalgae high biomass (70% of wet microalgae biomass produced a 136900 L/ha yield of lipids). As for the absence of nitrogen or stimulating conditions such as strong light, the lipid content will be higher (45.7% dry weight for green algae; 37.8% dry weight for diatoms; 44.6% dry weight for other lipid-rich algae). The lipid content fatty acids (C14-C22) that resulted from it higher then plant biomass. Converting oil to fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) using a transesterification process will yield suitable oil. Microalgae such as Chlorella sp. are commonly used in catholyte of SMFCs. The addition of Chlorella sp. had promoted bioelectricity and it correlated with the fact that microalgae provided biomass

production in the first stage. In the second stage, deficiency is initiated to induce lipid accumulation [4]. The purpose of this study is to accelerate the electron transfer between microorganisms and anodes in the process of generating electricity using 3D CS-CNT electrodes in Chlorella sp. SMFC and the FAME productivity from Chlorella sp. lipid with SMFC. 2. Problem statement The need for electrical energy and fuel oil in Indonesia is increasing along with the increase in population. The problem is that fossil fuels are non-renewable and leave behind more greenhouse gas emissions, degrading environmental quality. In addition, fuel oil is the largest contributor to the increase of CO2 in the earth's atmosphere and burning coal can produce considerable pollutants such as NOx, SOx, and which are harmful to human survival. Therefore, Indonesia needs more environmentally friendly and sustainable sources of electricity and fossil energy. 3. Method • Cultivation of Microalgae The photobioreactor was a one liter glass autoclaved bottle with cool-white LEDs illuminated under light/dark cycle (12/12); 2000-4000 lux. The medium of microalgae cultivation is an autoclaved Walne (1,0 mL/L), the culture was harvested at the middle of the exponential growth phase. Optical density (OD680) adjusted at 0.5 using previously Walne medium and used for further inoculation into SMFCs [5]. • Electrode Fabrication Corn stem (CS) was dried in an oven at 60°C; 24 h. The dried samples were subjected to sample carbonization in a N2 atmosphere tube furnace with a heating rate of 5 °C/min to reach 900 °C and annealed for 1 h. The samples were collected and ultrasonically treated in a solution of ethanol and water (1:1) to remove surface impurities and loose carbon at room temperature. A pair of CS (size: 12.5 cm; bottom diameter: 4.5 cm) was used as anode and cathode in the electrochemical deposition experiment. Electrodes were immersed in 50 mg/L CNT suspension. Then, the electrodes were removed from the suspension and dried at 80 °C [3]. • Sediment Microbial Fuel Cell assembly Sediment were collected from Jatiluhur Reservoir, West Java, Indonesia. SMFC reactor was single chamber type and was made using a second-hand plastic drum (120 Liters). Sediment samples were homogenized and coarse debris was removed. Sediment with a volume of 55 Liters is placed at the bottom of the reactors (anode). The algal catholyte was prepared by adding 44 Liters of the algal inoculum to 11 Liters aquades. The anode was an as-prepared CS/CNT electrode, while the cathode was a round carbon felt (22.5 cm) were sewn to titanium wire. Anode and cathode electrodes were embedded 20 cm under and above the sediment-catholyte interface, respectively, fixed in their positions by a plexiglass holder located on the top of each second-hand plastic drum. Electrodes in each SMFC

drum were connected through an external resistance of 1000 Ω. A set of cool-white LEDs was used to illuminate microalgal catholyte from the top (150 cm from each cathode electrode) with light intensity 3000-4000 lux of during the light cycles. Light (h)/dark (h) cycles of 12/12 were applied to SMFCs reactor. The light/dark cycles were controlled by a programmable timer. Catholyte loss due to evaporation was resupplied daily using distilled water over the time course of experiment [5]. • Harvesting of microalgae Harvesting of microalgal biomass was done by flocculation process. Sodium hydroxide was used as a flocculant at a pH between 11 and 12. The first period was carried out for 2 min with rapid mixing (300 rpm), followed by a 25 min flocculation period (35 rpm). The solution was allowed to stand for 2 hours. Then the settled biomass was separated with the solution on top. The biomass was dried using an oven at 60°C until the weight was constant [2]. • Direct Transesterification In this stage, 100 g of dry biomass was mixed with 300 mL of methanol in a 600 mL round bottom flask with 10 mL (20 g) of H2SO4 acid catalyst. The stage was carried out at 60°C for 4 hours with constant stirring. The result of transesterification was cooled for approximately 10 minutes, the result was partitioned with 200 mL of distilled water and 250 mL of n-hexane. The partition formed two layers contains methanol, catalyst, and excessive glycerol. Meanwhile, the upper layer contains biodiesel (fatty acid methyl ester [FAME]), n-hexane, and glyceride; the top layer is evaporated. The biodiesel components were analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) [4]. 4. Results/outcome • Bioelectricity The CNT-modified CS is conductive to increase the contact area on the surface. The characteristics of anode material affect the performance of SMFCs. CS/CNT characteristics anode could increase the contact area on the surface for microbial attachment, while its internal resistance decreased significantly. These electrode characteristics increase bacterial adhesion capability and improve electron transfer rate for bioelectricity production [3]. • Biodiesel The oil in microalgal biomass is low and consists mostly of polar lipids. Lipid transesterification process can produce FAME in both in-situ and ex-situ processes. The in situ process shows higher FAME compared to the ex-situ process. Triglycerides contained in microalgae cells have the potential to be developed as bioenergy, as they can be converted into FAME and glycerol through transesterification process using catalysts. Insights into cell pretreatment and direct conversion of FAME from cell biomass, allow in the future to develop techniques used in biodiesel production [4]. 5. References [1] Dasan, Y. K., Lam, M. K., Yusup, S., Lim, J. W., Show, P. L., Tan, I. S., & Lee, K. T. 2020. Cultivation of Chlorella vulgaris using sequential-flow bubble column photobioreactor: A

stress-inducing strategy for lipid accumulation and carbon dioxide fixation. Journal of CO2 Utilization, 41: 1-9. Perak. ISSN 2212-9820. [2] D’oca, M.G.M. et al. 2011. Production of FAMEs from several microalgal lipidic extracts and direct transesterification of the Chlorella pyrenoidosa. Biomass and Bioenergy, 35(4), pp. 1533– 1538. [3] Li, C. et al. 2022. Removal of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated soil using a solid-phase microbial fuel cell with a 3D corn stem carbon electrode modified with carbon nanotubes. Bioprocess and Biosystems Engineering, 45(7), pp. 1137–1147. [4] Purkan, P. et al. 2022. Microalgal Lipid From Chaetoceros calcitrans and Its Conversion to Biodiesel Through Ex and In-situ Transesterification. Rasayan Journal of Chemistry, 2022(Special Issue), pp. 43–52. [5] Song, X., Wang, W., Cao, X., Wang, Y., Zou, L., Ge, X., ... & Wang, Y. 2020. Chlorella vulgaris on the cathode promoted the performance of sediment microbial fuel cells for electrogenesis and pollutant removal. Science of the Total Environment, 728: 1-10. Tianjin. ISSN 0048-9697.

AFFORDABLE BIOENERGY SYSTEM Ruei Chena , Chiung Hao Tsenga , Yu Ting Song a a Institute of Green Products, Feng Chia University, Taichung City, 40724, Taiwan ([email protected], +886-424517250 ext.5323) Introduction Sustainability is an integrated concept aimed at achieving a balance between society, the environment, and the economy to ensure that both current and future generations can enjoy healthy, prosperous, and equitable lives. This means that we need to find innovative ways to reduce resource wastage, enhance efficiency, and seek sustainable sources of energy and materials, ensuring that our actions do not cause irreversible harm to the planet. [1] The principle of anaerobic fermentation involves the conversion of agricultural and livestock waste into biogas through microbial processes. This technology can operate continuously 24 hours a day, unaffected by weather conditions, making it applicable in any location. It not only addresses the issue of waste management but also provides renewable energy. Further development of this technology can offer a faster and more efficient solution to energy challenges, supporting sustainable development. [2] Background In 2014, the city of Manado in Indonesia was hit by big floods which had caused serious damaged, 25,000 people lost their houses and had to be relocated to rural areas. One of the most significant challenges faced during this crisis was the lack of energy resources in rural areas. Upon learning of this situation, the Green Energy Center team from Feng Chia University decided to assist by introducing the Symbiosis Energy (Symnergy) Model. This model utilized high efficient biogas production technology to generate bioenergy and help the people of Manado establish a pilot plant for bioenergy and biogas production. This approach not only saved on cooking fuel expenses but also produced organic fertilizers suitable for fertilization. Moreover, the pilot plant created approximately 2.5 job opportunities. Through collaborative efforts, a pilot plant, led by Feng Chia University, was successfully constructed adjacent to a cattle slaughterhouse in Manado. [3]

Method Although the concept of Symnergy Model provides a solution for energy supply and waste treatment in rural areas, the key lies in the setting up of a pilot plant, which is usually costly and difficult to carry out without the funding support of the government or private enterprises, and the idea of biogas pilot plant is not well understood in rural areas. The main task of pilot plant in Symnergy Model is to generate electricity, but if we think about the most important livelihood problems in rural areas, it can be categorized into three: the first one is the demand for basic cooking fuel, the second one is the lack of job opportunities, and the third one is the disposal of waste food and animal dung. In order to solve these three problems, our team proposed the concept of Affordable Bioenergy System. Affordable Bioenergy System The Affordable Bioenergy System (ABS) is a simplified version of the Symnergy Model, which also uses anaerobic fermentation as its core technology. The difference is that the purpose of the ABS is not use for generating electricity, but aims to provide clean fuel and create jobs while solving the problems of waste food and animal dung. Because the purpose of power generation is removed from this system, it can be greatly reduced in size and cost to a level that is affordable to the local residents. The system works as follows: First, 250 L of cow dung and 50 L of waste food are mixed into a 500 L tank and left for 14 days to perform a bio-fermentation reaction, so as to create a suitable environment for the growth of methanogenic bacteria in the tank. After that, we can add waste food, cow dung, etc. to the tank depending on our own situation, and then produce biogas for cooking as well as organic fertilizers for agricultural use. According to the actual test, it can produce about 0.25 m3 of biogas per day, which can be used for cooking for about 1.5 hours. Through this system, more jobs will be created and the quality of life will be improved. [4] Investment and payback Each unit of the ABS costs about USD 330, including the cost of equipment (USD 150), raw materials, and labor. Assuming that a person living in a rural area of Indonesia lives by selling fried bananas and has a net monthly income of about US$125.4, if the government encourages people to use the ABS and at the same time offers a zero-interest loan, it would only take about 9 months to pay off

the cost of purchasing an ABS. In addition, the ABS can also solve the problem of banana peels and provide the fuel needed to fry bananas. We can also calculate the cost savings of using biogas instead of LPG. In general, the Lower Heating Value (LHV) of LPG is 46.4 MJ/kg and biogas is 22.5 MJ/m3 . Assume if one household using 9 kg LPG per month or 108 kg LPG/year (equals to USD 43.2 per year), means the LHV for LPG in one year is 46.4 × 108 kg = 5,011.2 MJ/year. Comparatively, the biogas production rate of 0.25 m3 /day equals 5.63 MJ/day or 2,025 MJ/year. It is shown that with this production rate, the biogas production from the ABS can support one households for almost half year and save the money around USD 17.5 to replace the usage of LPG. Profits from the sale of fried bananas and savings from the reduced use of LPG can further accelerate the break-even point, and this does not yet include the economic benefits of using organic fertilizers from the ABS for crop cultivation. Conclusion and future prospects Up to now, more than 40 ABSs have been used on different rural areas and islands in Indonesia, and have brought significant benefits to the local residents. Through the ABS, we provide a low-cost, simple, and efficient solution to the problems of cooking fuel use, agricultural and livestock waste treatment, and the creation of more jobs in rural areas. Through the realization of the ABS in Indonesia, we hope to further promote the system to every place in need and continue to improve the ABS so that the concept of biomass energy can be more common to foster the economic development of rural areas and to enhance the green energy industry as well as the production efficiency of the communities. [1] Anne P.M. Velenturf, Phil Purnell. 2021.Sustainable Production and Consumption. Volume 27 [2] Jechan Lee, et.al. 2023. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews Volume 178, 113240 [3] Alicia Amelia Elizabeth Sinsuw, et.al. 2021. Journal of Water Process Engineering Volume 40, 101796 [4] N Ginting. 2017. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science

ADAPTING TO CHANGE: GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PATHWAYS FOR SUSTAINABILITY IN AGRICULTURE TVET CAMPUS M A Nurul Hidayah a Sultan Idris Education University, Malaysia ([email protected], +60124326204) The imperative of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) looms large in the discourse surrounding the challenges posed by globalization. Within the realm of Sustainable Development Education, the prominence of Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) emerges as a pivotal focus, contributing significantly to the perpetuation of human well-being. To fashion a comprehensive approach towards sustainability that seamlessly integrates the realms of academia, students, and institutional administration, it becomes incumbent to infuse sustainability endeavors into the very fabric of campus life within TVET establishments. Among the array of approaches, the deployment of green infrastructure stands out as particularly noteworthy. Its potential to engender tangible benefits for societal well-being and human health renders it an exemplar within this context. In alignment with this perspective, the study was undertaken at Teluk Intan Vocational College, aimed at a meticulous exploration of the latent capacity inherent in green infrastructure development within the TVET campus milieu. This choice of institution was predicated upon Teluk Intan Vocational College's unique status as a TVET establishment offering specialized programs in agriculture and concomitantly, aligning with the realm of environmental studies. Employing a methodological triad encompassing observation, and inventory analysis, the research unveiled an assemblage of promising green infrastructure strategies. Noteworthy propositions encompassed the installation of green roofs, the harnessing of rainwater and groundwater, the cultivation of rain gardens, and the incorporation of agroecological pedagogies. By effectuating the integration of green infrastructure within the precincts of TVET college campuses, manifold benefits ensue. These encompass not only the enhancement of campus management methodologies, intertwined with disaster risk mitigation techniques, but also the fortification of pedagogical paradigms, with an emphasis on practical applications. Furthermore, green infrastructure extends its purview to encompass a holistic approach towards addressing environmental exigencies within the TVET campus domain, catering comprehensively to the multifaceted challenges germane to the global shift necessitated by the pursuit of education for sustainable development.

Founded in 1982 as Teluk Intan Technical High School, this institution has been a stalwart purveyor of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs in disciplines such as Farm Management, Agricultural Machinery, Horticulture, and Landscape. Its evolution into Teluk Intan Vocational College in 2013 marked a transformative juncture, expanding its educational purview to encompass eleven comprehensive agricultural programs. Positioned at the geographical coordinates of 3° 59′ 32′′ N latitude and 101° 03′ 20′′ E longitude, the college occupies a pivotal locale within Teluk Intan, an esteemed city renowned for its historical significance in the state of Perak [1]. The college's demographic mosaic consists of 532 students, its campus sprawling over an estimated expanse of 20 hectares. Nestled at an elevation of 4 meters above sea level, Teluk Intan graces the landscape with an average temperature of 27.5 °C and an annual precipitation of 2412 mm, a testament to its climatic characteristics. Yet, the college resides within a flood-prone terrain, necessitating a strategic and robust approach to manage the recurrent inundations that threaten its sustainable equilibrium. Global trends underscore the amplification of flood risks, an interplay of floodplain encroachments and climateinduced perturbations [2]. Consequently, the focus of this research zeroes in on three pivotal concerns afflicting Teluk Intan Vocational College: the specter of floods, a deficient drainage network, and anemic vegetation cover. The inundation quandary is largely attributed to overflowing palm oil ditch channels that deluge the campus when water volume surpasses the discharge capacity. Heightened rainfall, compounded by inadequate drainage infrastructure and insufficient greenery, exacerbates the situation, resulting in inundation when the ground reaches its saturation threshold. The overarching objective of this research is to propose a resilient landscape that can adeptly navigate the challenges posed by climate change and surmount the water-related conundrums endemic to the campus. The triad of focal objectives underscored in this endeavor aims to proffer viable green infrastructure solutions congruent with the agricultural education system and syllabus. The premise is to harness the existing agricultural education framework as a potent conduit for climate change adaptation. Six foundational principles for a green campus, encompassing ecological, cultural, vocational, artistic, pragmatic, and economic facets, serve as a compass for TVET institutions [3]. The recommended strategies, geared towards the future management and planning of green infrastructure on the campus, are anchored in the concept of a resilient campus environment. This involves the integration of green infrastructure elements imbued with the emblematic essence of higher education and self-directed learning. A forward-looking design ethos embraces the reality

of sinking cities, with this institution navigating the heightened risk of natural catastrophes, notably flooding. As an educational bastion specializing in agriculture, fortifying the institution's preparedness against disruptive natural forces becomes paramount. The proposition takes shape in the form of a resilient campus habitat, characterized by the seamless infusion of green infrastructure development. By harnessing the campus's environmental endowments—clean air, land, water, and energy—green infrastructure initiatives fortify resilience and adaptive capacities against climatic vagaries and natural perils [4]. Among the green infrastructure modalities, the green roof assumes a salient position, encompassing vegetated systems atop structures, fortified by layers that optimize system performance [5]. Conducive spaces on campus beckon the implementation of green roofs, especially in zones where vegetation is wanting. Rainwater and groundwater harvesting offer a vital avenue to address the campus's water requirements, leveraging the Teluk Intan district's annual precipitation of 2412 mm and underground water potential. Strategic hotspots emerge for this initiative, including students' practical areas, presenting opportunities for sustainable application in teaching and learning processes. The recurrent threat of flooding the recreational field prompts a paradigm shift—a transition from adversity to opportunity. By transforming this space into a water detention area, the risk of flooding is mitigated, fostering enhanced water infiltration, efficient runoff management, and multifaceted benefits akin to the Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park model [6]. Further catalyzing this transformation, the concept of rain gardens, serving as bioretention systems, emerges as a potent strategy to enhance water quality and mitigate runoff [7]. Positioned as open spaces within the campus, these rain gardens deliver multifaceted outcomes, from water purification to aesthetic enhancement. Laying the groundwork for future pedagogical paradigms, the agroecology approach takes center stage, infusing ecological principles into agricultural practices [8]. This approach, anchored in sustainability and adaptability, aligns harmoniously with the institution's need for resilience amidst climatic shifts. An imperative analysis of its dynamics, potential, and conflicts underpins its adoption, ensuring that it encapsulates not only graduates' marketability but also lifelong sustainability in education [9]. In projecting the institution's future, a repertoire of strategies emerges. These encompass the incorporation of permeable pavements, bioswales, retention ponds, and diverse green infrastructure components to absorb rainwater and curtail flooding risks. For Teluk Intan

Vocational College, nestled in a prospective floodplain, these measures stand as bulwarks against economic losses due to floods, underscoring the economic prudence of such preparedness. Understanding green infrastructure's strategic implementation, coupled with leveraging the ecosystem's regulating services, underpins enduring cost reductions. As this institution embarks on a path of transformative change, guided by green infrastructure, it not only safeguards its future but also resonates as a beacon of sustainable resilience amid the challenges of an everchanging climate. The trajectory of future sustainable planning within the TVET campus necessitates a profound understanding of the campus's dynamic environment, intertwined with a nuanced acclimatization to the formidable forces of climate change that lie beyond human control. In light of these imperatives, the green infrastructure blueprint set forth by this study emerges as inherently congruent with the tenets of TVET education and harmonious with the present state of the campus. Moreover, the envisaged green infrastructure holds the potential for seamless integration into the educational framework, bridging its realms with the agricultural curriculum. This convergence finds resonance in the alignment of the prevailing agro-industry paradigm with the fundamental principles underpinning agroecology. This fusion presents a pivotal opportunity to recalibrate the educational approach, thereby securing the sustainable trajectory of the TVET system for the progeny of tomorrow. Consequently, an innovative educational paradigm stands poised for introduction, serving as the bedrock for the perpetuation of the TVET educational architecture. In this vein, the existing agricultural education system assumes newfound significance, emerging as an avenue through which resilient students can be nurtured, aptly equipped to confront the multifaceted ramifications of climate change with resolve and adaptability. References [1] J. A. Ibrahim, N. A. Razak, and M. Z. Ahmad. 2016. Tinggalan Warisan Di Sepanjang Jalan Keretapi Tapah Road – Teluk Intan: Kajian Awalan Dan Potensi Pemeliharaan. Persidang. Nas. Sej. Melayu Kepul. Melayu, no. 3, pp. 212–223. [2] C. Vitale, S. Meijerink, F. D. Moccia, and P. Ache. 2020. Urban flood resilience, a discursiveinstitutional analysis of planning practices in the Metropolitan City of Milan. Land use policy, vol. 95, p. 104575. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landusepol.2020.104575. [3] L. Xue and Q. Gu. 2019. Intergrating campus greening and restorative landscape construction

in vocational college. J. Landsc. Res., vol. 11, no. 5, pp. 27–31. [4] K. H. Liao, S. Deng, and P. Y. Tan. 2017. Blue-Green Infrastructure: New Frontier for Sustainable Urban Stormwater Management. in Advances in 21st Century Human Settlements, Springer pp. 203–226. [5] M. Shafique, R. Kim, and M. Rafiq. 2018. Green roof benefits, opportunities and challenges – A review. Renew. Sustain. Energy Rev., vol. 90, no. March, pp. 757–773, doi: 10.1016/j.rser.2018.04.006. [6] A. Yarnvudhi, N. Leksungnoen, P. Tor-Ngern, A. Premashthira, S. Thinkampheang, and S. Hermhuk. 2021. Evaluation of regulating and provisioning services provided by a park designed to be resilient to climate change in bangkok, Thailand. Sustain., vol. 13, no. 24. [7] R. Sharma and P. Malaviya. 2021. Management of stormwater pollution using green infrastructure: The role of rain gardens.Wiley Interdiscip. Rev. Water, vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 1–21. [8] E. Aguilera. 2020. Agroecology for adaptation to climate change and resource depletion in the Mediterranean region. A review. Agric. Syst., vol. 181, p. 102809, 2020. [9] C. R. Anderson, C. Maughan, and M. P. Pimbert. 2019. Transformative agroecology learning in Europe: building consciousness, skills and collective capacity for food sovereignty,” Agric. Human Values, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 531–547.

THE SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF CLINICAL WASTE ZD KOON 1 , YS CHAN 1 AJ NAZIMI 2 1Postgraduate, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 2Lecturer, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Introduction The idea of sustainability is the capacity to consistently support or maintain a process over time. It can be related to environmental, social, and economic considerations. It is important for institution or practice to constantly seek to sustain a process across time without sacrificing the capacity of subsequent generations to satisfy their own requirements [1]. However, sustainability may be hampered by inequalities in many areas, including social, economic, political, cultural, geographical, environmental, and knowledge. Therefore, it is crucial to take both equality and sustainability into account [2]. Sustainable practices promote the health and vitality of the environment, people, and the economy. According to sustainability, resources are limited and should be utilized prudently with the aim towards long-term goals and outcomes. In healthcare industry, clinical waste is any waste created during medical procedures that might potentially contaminate people or the environment. In order to stop the spread of illness and safeguard the environment, clinical waste must be managed properly. Compared to underdeveloped countries, developed countries produce more hospital waste. Highincome nations produce up to 0.5 kg of hazardous waste per person per day on average, whereas lowincome nations produce just 0.2 kg per person per day [3]. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that between 75% and 90% of the waste produced by healthcare institutions is nonhazardous; the remaining 10% to 25%, however, cannot be disregarded [4]. This might include materials that are radioactive, poisonous, infectious, or genotoxic. Such trash presents concerns to both occupational and environmental health. Due to an expansion in the population, the number of healthcare facilities, and the usage of disposable medical items in recent years, there has been a considerable increase in the amount of hospital waste generated. Thus, sustainability of clinical waste is crucial for sustainable healthcare. Sustainable clinical waste management in the healthcare industry attempts to conserve natural resources by reusing, recycling, and recovering the materials. Sustainability can be done by promoting cutting back on the use and discarding less clinical waste. Reducing packaging waste and encourage the reuse of medical materials are two examples of waste reduction programs that might be

implemented. In addition, sustainable clinical waste management may only be attained by cooperative efforts between hospitals, private trash haulers, government regulators, and other interested parties [5]. Problem statement Teeth are regarded as clinical waste which commonly be discarded following dental extraction procedure. The prevalence of dental extractions in the population was found to be as high as 21.5% in one of the study [6]. In a local context, it was showed that caries was the main reasons for 53.3% of the dental extractions performed. The highest number of extractions was observed between the age of 21 to 40-year-old (44.4%), whereas females had 56.6% and Malay showed highest extraction cases at 85.2% [7]. After dental extraction, bone loss is most pronounced in the midline of the extraction socket. In addition, functional reduction following tooth extraction eventually leads to bone loss with a great variation in the remodeling of the edentulous areas. Following tooth loss, the socket becomes filled with a blood coagulum which is later replaced by fibrous connective tissue. The healing process then commences, and the socket undergoes a series of changes that result in the formation of new bone. Research found that after an extraction, 40% to 60% of height and width may be lost in 2 to 3 years if no socket preservation is performed after an extraction [8]. With increasing aesthetic and functional demand in the recent years, more and more tooth replacing methods have been used. Dental implant is by far the most near perfect solution for missing tooth solution. The prevalence of dental implants has increased significantly in recent years. According to a study analyzing data from 7 th National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys from 1999 to 2016, there has been a large increase in the use of dental implants, from 0.7% in 1999-2000 to 5.7% in 2015-2016. The largest absolute increase in prevalence (12.9%) was seen among individuals aged 65 to 74-yearold, whereas the largest relative increase was ~1,000% among those aged 55 to 64-year-old [9]. The use of dental implants is now a reliable treatment for edentulism with a success rate of 97% at 10 years and 75% at 20 years. Out of the 376 implants placed in one study, 12 implant failures were recorded during the period of 2014 to 2020, which equates to an overall failure rate of 3.11% over a 6-year follow-up [10]. Many bone grafts are available to be used with implant for tooth replacement, but autogenous bone is regarded as the best since it has all the characteristics— osteoinduction, osteoconduction, and osteogenesis which is necessary for new bone creation. However, this graft often requires a second surgical treatment, which causes morbidity at the donor site [11]. Allografts and xenografts have been developed as alternatives to autogenous bone in some grafting methods to avoid the additional surgery required to harvest the graft, however they cannot completely replace it. Therefore, in this scenario, we would question can the extracted teeth be used as a reusable bone graft to support the implant placement?

Methodology Autogenous dentin graft has been suggested and has now been considered an alternative autogenous graft material. The study by Yeomans and Urist, who showed that dentin includes bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP's) and growth factors, offered the first established evidence of the regenerative-osteoinductive potential of autologous dentin transplant as dentin contains an inorganic content of roughly 70% to75% and an organic component of roughly 20%, whereas alveolar bone is made of 65% inorganic content and 25% organic material. Type I collagen makes up at least 90% of dentin's organic composition, and it is crucial for the production and mineralization of bones. Other non-collagenic proteins such osteocalcin, osteonectin, and phosphoprotein make up the remaining 10% [12]. BMPs in dentin helps mesenchymal stem cells differentiate into chondrocytes, which in turn potentially stimulates the production of a new bone [13]. The method of preparing the dentin graft is started immediately after tooth extraction. The tooth was cleaned with a coarse diamond bur to remove the debris, periodontal ligament and all restorations. After that, it was grinded into 300 to 1200 m particles using a sterile disposable grinder (Smart Dentin Grinder, Kometa Bio, Cresskill, NJ, USA). The particulated dentin later placed in a sterile closed dish with a solution of sodium hydroxide (0.5 N, 4 mL) and ethanol (20 vol%, 1 mL) (Dentin Cleaner, Kometa Bio, Cresskill, NJ, USA) for 10 minutes in order to perform chemical cleaning, defatting, and disinfection. After the exposure time, the material was rinsed by manually shaking in a phosphate-buffered physiological saline solution (Dulbecco's Phosphate Buffered Saline, Kometa Bio, Cresskill, NJ, USA) for 3 minutes. The supernatant was then collected with sterile gauze. Partial demineralization of the dentin was carried out by soaking the material in a 10% EDTA solution (Kometa Bio, USA, Cresskill) for 3 minutes to reveal the collagen fiber network and release osteoinductive growth factors. With a buffered saline solution, the item was rinsed once more, and the material was then ready to be used as grafting material. Impact The impact of this dentinal graft is towards the recycle use of the extracted tooth itself. This process adhered to the osteoinduction and osteoconduction properties needed as excellent graft material yet avoiding the second surgical site. Less clinical waste can been produced and less off the shelf graft materials are needed for this purpose. Recycling sustainable clinical waste has several advantages, including environmental protection, cost savings, sustainability, reduced environmental impact, and compliance with regulations. By reducing the amount of extracted tooth as clinical waste that needs to be treated or disposed of, the recycling process by using it as autogenous graft material could potentially help healthcare organizations to go greener and helps protect the environment.

References [1] Purvis, Ben; Mao, Yong; Robinson, Darren (2019). "Three pillars of sustainability: in search of conceptual origins". Sustainability Science. 14 (3): 681–695. doi:10.1007/s11625-018-0627-5. ISSN 1862-4065. [2] Leach, M., Reyers, B., Bai, X., Brondizio, E., Cook, C., Díaz, S., Subramanian, S. (2018). Equity and sustainability in the Anthropocene: A social–ecological systems perspective on their intertwined futures. Global Sustainability, 1, E13. doi:10.1017/sus.2018.12 [3] Ali M, Wang W, Chaudhry N, Geng Y. Hospital waste management in developing countries: A mini review. Waste Manag Res. 2017 Jun;35(6):581-592. doi: 10.1177/0734242X17691344. Epub 2017 Feb 1. PMID: 28566033. [4] Yves Chartier JE, Pieper U, Prüss A, et al. (2013) Safe Management of wastes from Health Care Activities. 2nd ed. Geneva: World Health Organization. [5] Yang C, Peijun L, Lupi C, Yangzhao S, Diandou X, Qian F, Shasha F. Sustainable management measures for healthcare waste in China. Waste Manag. 2009 Jun;29(6):1996-2004. doi: 10.1016/j.wasman.2008.11.031. Epub 2009 Jan 20. PMID: 19157834; PMCID: PMC7126051. [6] Suhaila Ali, Nazih Shaaban M, Muhannad Ali K, Tin M H. Reasons and pattern of tooth extraction in International Islamic University Malaysia, Kulliyyah of Dentistry Polyclinic, Materials Today: Proceedings, Volume 16, Part 4, 2019, Pages 2280-2284, ISSN 2214-7853, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2019.06.122. [7] Abdul Razak I, Jaafar N, Mat Nor G. The causes of tooth mortality of permanent teeth in a Malaysian population. J Ir Dent Assoc. 1989;35(1):39-41. PMID: 2634714. [8] Nisar N, Nilesh K, Parkar MI, Punde P. Extraction socket preservation using a collagen plug combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP): A comparative clinico-radiographic study. J Dent Res Dent Clin Dent Prospects. 2020 Spring;14(2):139-145. doi: 10.34172/joddd.2020.028. Epub 2020 Jun 17. PMID: 32908656; PMCID: PMC7464229.

[9] Elani HW, Starr JR, Da Silva JD, Gallucci GO. Trends in Dental Implant Use in the U.S., 1999- 2016, and Projections to 2026. J Dent Res. 2018 Dec;97(13):1424-1430. doi: 10.1177/0022034518792567. Epub 2018 Aug 3. PMID: 30075090; PMCID: PMC6854267. [10] Thiebot, N., Hamdani, A., Blanchet, F., Dame, M., Tawfik, S., Mbapou, E., ... & Alantar, A. (2022). Implant failure rate and the prevalence of associated risk factors: a 6-year retrospective observational survey. Journal of Oral Medicine and Oral Surgery, 28(2), 19. [11] Minamizato, T., Koga, T., I, T., Nakatani, Y., Umebayashi, M., Sumita, Y., Ikeda, T. & Asahina, I. 2018. Clinical Application of Autogenous Partially Demineralized Dentin Matrix Prepared Immediately after Extraction for Alveolar Bone Regeneration in Implant Dentistry: A Pilot Study. International journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery 47(1): 125-132 [12] Urist, M. R. & Strates, B. S. 1971. Bone Morphogenetic Protein. J Dent Res 50(6): 1392-1406. Van Orten, A., Goetz, W. & Bilhan, H. 2022. Tooth-Derived Granules in Combination with PlateletRich Fibrin (“Sticky Tooth”) in Socket Preservation: A Histological Evaluation. Dentistry Journal 10(2): 29. [13] Sampath, T. K. & Reddi, A. H. 2020. Discovery of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins - a Historical Perspective. Bone 140(115548)

DEVELOPMENT OF MICRO-MESOSTRUCTURED ACTIVATED CARBON FROM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCH BIOMASS M N H Zabidi, D Derawi* aLaboratory of Biolubricant, Biofuels and Bioenergy Research, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia ([email protected]) Sustainability refers to the ability to support a system or process without harming the environment, society, or economy. It emphasizes the well-being of current and future generations. There are three main aspects of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. Environmental sustainability involves conserving natural resources, using renewable energy, and managing land and resources responsibly. Social sustainability focuses on promoting equity, justice, and well-being within communities, ensuring access to basic needs, healthcare, education, and human rights. Economic sustainability aims for long-term prosperity and stability through practices like economic growth, job creation, fair trade, and responsible consumption [1]. Sustainability recognizes the interconnectedness of these factors and seeks a balance for the well-being of present and future generations. It guides decisions and actions of individuals, businesses, governments, and organizations to minimize negative impacts and promote a sustainable future [2]. UNESCO distinguishes sustainability as a long-term goal, while sustainable development refers to the pathways to achieve it [3]. Thus, the idea of producing micro-mesostructured activated carbon from empty fruit bunches (EFB) biomass has been conceived in supporting this sustainability. The concept of sustainable activated carbon production from EFB biomass embodies a dual purpose which is addressing the challenges posed by waste accumulation and enhancing the environmental performance of activated carbon manufacturing. By utilizing a waste product as a valuable resource, this concept aligns with circular economy principles and minimizes the reliance on non-renewable resources for activated carbon production. In Malaysia, palm oil production is the second largest in the world after Indonesia [4]. The extensive oil palm plantations in Malaysia covered an estimated area of 5.87 million hectares in 2020. According to the Malaysian Department of Statistics, palm oil cultivation has become an important industry for Malaysia's economic growth, contributing nearly RM38 billion in 2020 [5]. However, this also leads to an increase in waste biomass, as only 10% of the palm fruit is used to produce palm oil, while the rest becomes waste materials such as pressed palm fibers (mesocarp), palm kernel shells (endocarp), and EFB [4]. For example, palm oil production has increased the remaining oil palm biomass by about 51.19 million metric tons (Mt) and EFB by approximately 20-23% of the total biomass, but they are still underutilized or not fully explored [19][20]. Nevertheless, these waste materials cannot be simply discarded and can still be reused to produce useful products like activated carbon. Therefore, the EFB is selected as the biomass to produce activated carbon.

Activated carbon is an amorphous carbon material produced through activation processes, possessing high porosity and a large surface area compared to larger particles [6]. It has a surface area ranging from 500 to 1500 m2 /g and a well-developed pore structure [7]. Therefore, activated carbon has been widely used in various applications such as gas separation, solvent recovery, gas storage, supercapacitor electrodes, catalyst support, and adsorbent for organic and inorganic pollutants in drinking water [8]. Additionally, this activated carbon can effectively remove impurities such as hazardous chemicals in liquids or gases through adsorption. However, the high cost of producing activated carbon hinders its application in various technologies [9]. Therefore, many researchers have made extensive efforts to find cheaper alternatives for producing activated carbon from various carbonaceous materials, such as lignocellulosic materials, biopolymers, charcoal, carbon black, and fruit peels [10][11][12][13][14]. Thus, EFB is one of the lignocellulosic materials that can be associated with cellulose content of 23.70%, hemicellulose content of 21.60%, and lignin content of 29.20%, making it a viable and green option to produce activated carbon [15][16]. The utilization of agricultural waste like EFB aligns with the goals set by the United Nations (UN) called Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030. This study contributes to Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and Goal 13 (Climate Action). Goal 12 can be achieved through substantial waste generation reduction by means of prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse. Goal 13 also includes relevant targets addressed in this study, such as integrating climate change measures into policies and planning related to greenhouse gas emissions [17]. Therefore, immediate action is needed to address climate change and its impacts by controlling greenhouse gas emissions and promoting the development of renewable energy. This idea also achieves several characteristics of green technology, such as minimizing environmental destruction, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, providing safety and a healthier environment for all life forms, conserving energy, and natural resources, and promoting the use of renewable sources [18]. Thus, the implementation of the sustainable concept involves several key approaches. Firstly, the conversion of EFB biomass into activated carbon serves as a remarkable waste-to-resource transformation. By repurposing EFB biomass that would otherwise contribute to waste management challenges, this process promotes resource efficiency and actively contributes to waste reduction efforts. Secondly, the entire carbonization and activation processes of the EFB biomass are conducted using eco-friendly methods. This approach ensures that the carbonization and activation steps are environmentally responsible, aiming to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the overall ecological footprint associated with traditional carbon production methods. For example, physical activation can be used based on factors such as low cost and high efficiency [4]. The physical activation process involved steam as the activating agent. During steam activation, the narrow pores developed on the surface of biochar are expanded, creating new pores and increasing the porosity and surface area of

the carbon material [21]. Lastly, the integration of renewable energy sources plays a pivotal role in this sustainable implementation. By utilizing renewable energy, such as biomass-based heat and electricity, to power the activation process, an additional layer of environmental benefit is achieved. This integration not only enhances the overall sustainability of the process but also contributes to a substantial reduction in the environmental impact of the entire activated carbon production from EFB biomass. There are four main strategies to achieve this sustainable activated carbon production. Firstly, prioritizing technological innovation through advanced research and development efforts, particularly in refining carbonization and activation methods, optimizing energy efficiency, and elevating the overall quality and performance of the resultant activated carbon. Secondly, fostering collaboration and forging partnerships among stakeholders spanning the palm oil industry, research institutions, and government agencies holds potential for enriching knowledge exchange, sharing resources, and garnering policy support, all crucial elements for the realization of sustainable activated carbon production. A comprehensive strategy also involves conducting thorough Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of the environmental, economic, and societal implications of the entire production process. These insights guide decision-making and facilitate continuous improvement efforts. Lastly, the dissemination of knowledge through education and awareness initiatives is paramount, as it not only highlights the advantages of EFB biomass-based activated carbon but also champions the adoption of sustainable practices, generating heightened consumer demand and industrywide acceptance. The production of activated carbon from biomass EFB through steam activation can have multifaceted impacts on society, the country, and the environment. Environmentally, it positively affects waste management by reducing disposal in landfills or burning, which mitigates air pollution. Additionally, it contributes to carbon sequestration, helping to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and preserves natural resources by reducing the demand for alternative carbon sources. Moreover, it aids in conserving ecosystems by avoiding the use of harmful carbon sources like coal or petroleum-based products. Socially, this process creates employment opportunities in the biomass waste management sector and activated carbon industry, fostering local economic development. Furthermore, its applications in water purification and air filtration enhance public health by removing contaminants and ensuring clean resources. Nationally, converting empty fruit bunches into valuable activated carbon adds economic value to the palm oil industry, providing additional revenue streams for farmers and producers. Moreover, the export potential of high-quality activated carbon contributes to foreign exchange earnings and strengthens the country's export market. To conclude, the sustainable and impactful approach of utilizing agricultural waste, particularly EFB from palm oil production, to produce activated carbon through steam activation aligns with the

Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and Goal 13 (Climate Action). By addressing waste management, promoting renewable resources, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the production of activated carbon from biomass EFB has positive effects on the environment, society, and economy. It presents solutions to environmental pollution, fosters economic growth, generates employment opportunities, improves public health, and contributes to national economic development. Embracing this sustainable pathway holds the potential for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future not only for Malaysia but also for other regions.

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