To celebrate the 13th Anniversary of Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia Jakarta, from June 12-14, 2025, PEPULIH participated by presenting activities rich in educational value and environmental awareness. Held at Atma Jaya University's Semanggi Campus, this series of events was part of the university's spirit of celebrating its anniversary with creative, concrete actions that impact the earth and society.
One of the main activities that attracted the attention of visitors was a workshop on making candles from used cooking oil and making eco-enzymes from organic kitchen waste. The workshop was attended by university students, alumni, and high school students who enthusiastically learned how to process household waste into useful and environmentally friendly products.
In the used cooking oil candle-making session, participants were introduced to the dangers of disposing of used cooking oil down the drain and were taught simple ways to transform it into unique candle accessories or crafts. Meanwhile, in the eco-enzyme session, participants learned firsthand the fermentation process of organic waste such as fruit peels and vegetable scraps into a multipurpose liquid that can be used as a cleaner, liquid fertilizer, and even a natural pest repellent.
This activity not only introduced new skills but also raised awareness that environmental solutions can start in one's own kitchen.
In addition to the workshop, the community also featured a booth showcasing recycled products. In collaboration with Tarakanita School, the Laudato Si Movement Indonesia, Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), and Talithakum Indonesia, a variety of unique and attractive handmade products—from bags made from plastic packaging waste, displays made from newspaper, to eco-friendly soap—were exhibited and sold. This booth also served as a platform for a zero-waste lifestyle campaign and an inclusive, community-based circular economy.
According to Ms. Setia Damayanti, one of the workshop instructors, participating in this Dies Natalis event was an active contribution to promoting a sustainable lifestyle among the academic community. "We want to show that anyone can get involved in protecting the environment. Students, lecturers, and even general visitors can all take part in small actions that have a big impact."
The spirit of this year's Dies Natalis is not only a celebration of the university's anniversary, but also a call to build a greener, smarter, and more sustainable future—in line with Atma Jaya University's spirit as a campus that cares about humanity and the preservation of creation.