Powering the Future: UPH Students’ Algae-Based Energy Idea Wins Program Kreativitas Mahasiswa (PKM) Funding
A team of biology and law students from Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) has earned funding from Program Kreativitas Mahasiswa (PKM) – Gagasan Futuristik Tertulis (GFT). They propose a sustainable alternative to non–renewable energy for generating electricity, algae photobioreactors designed to generate electricity in urban environments.
The idea tackles two major global issues, which is pollution and climate change. By harnessing algae’s natural ability to absorb CO₂ and release oxygen, the photobioreactor produces electrons that can be converted into electricity. Even better, it uses household wastewater as a growth medium to reduce waste while cleaning the environment. The students envision installing these photobioreactors on building walls and public facilities to turn city infrastructure into green energy sources. The system is built using affordable materials like activated charcoal from coconut shells and titanium oxide, making it both accessible and eco-friendly. The harvested algae can even be repurposed into nutritious food products. This innovative concept reflects the university and students’ strong commitment to sustainability and applied science, showing how student-led innovations and ideas can contribute to real-world solutions for a cleaner and greener future.
