According to a report from Harian Umum Pikiran Rakyat on Monday (January 1, 2024), the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), in collaboration with the Environmental Preservation Forum (FPLH), has installed a biogas reactor in Lembang District, West Bandung, through ITB's Community Service Program.

This technology converts cow manure into biogas, a clean, odorless energy source that can replace LPG, providing economic benefits and reducing environmental pollution.

Jayagiri Village in Lembang District was chosen as the location for the biogas reactor because it is a center for milk production with a climate that supports cattle farming. The potential for biogas production in this village is quite substantial, with an estimated capacity to process manure from 50 cows daily.

The produced biogas will be used for drying agricultural products, as fuel in the cultivation of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae for animal feed, and for household needs. Through the fermentation process, cow manure is converted into biogas, which is then purified from impurities, mainly hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a foul-smelling and toxic gas.

The biogas production process also generates a by-product called slurry, which can be used as fertilizer. It is hoped that this development will be the initial step in solving waste problems in the community and supporting local SMEs by producing environmentally friendly fuel.