Students of the Elementary School Teacher Education (PGSD) Program at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta recently conducted a field-study implementation activity by transforming used cooking oil into candles at Khodijah Sinar Melati Orphanage. The activity involved 17 orphanage residents aged between 12 and 15 years, ranging from Grade 5 elementary school students to Grade 8 junior high school students. The program was designed as an environmental education initiative while supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

The activity began with an introductory session between the university students and participants to create a friendly and interactive atmosphere. The students then explained what used cooking oil is and discussed its environmental impacts when disposed of improperly. Participants were introduced to simple methods of converting household waste into useful products with practical value. This session emphasized that household waste does not always need to be discarded, but can instead be recycled into creative and beneficial products.

Following the introduction, the students demonstrated how to make candles from used cooking oil using simple tools and materials. Participants observed each stage of the process, including filtering the oil, mixing ingredients, and molding the candles. The children enthusiastically followed the demonstration and actively asked questions about the candle-making process. In addition to watching the demonstration, they were also given the opportunity to create their own candles under the guidance of the university students.

Through this activity, participants gained new insights into environmentally friendly household waste management. Besides raising awareness about the importance of protecting the environment, the program also fostered creativity, teamwork, and practical skills in producing simple products that can be used in everyday life. The candles made from used cooking oil also have economic potential if developed further as creative products.

“We hope this activity can provide new insights for children about the importance of environmental conservation while demonstrating how waste can be transformed into products with practical and commercial value,” said Salsabilla Azizah Maulidini, the program coordinator.

This field-study implementation activity represents one of the contributions of PGSD UNY students toward achieving the SDGs through environmental education and community empowerment. It also highlights the importance of collaboration between university students and the community in creating simple yet meaningful innovations. Similar initiatives are expected to continue and expand in order to generate broader positive impacts on both the environment and society.