Field Study to PT. GML, Polman Negeri Babel Students Learn Palm Oil Waste Processing
The visit of Polman Negeri Babel students to PT. GML is part of an experiential learning effort. Accompanied by lecturers, students are invited to see firsthand how the palm oil industry manages its waste sustainably and environmentally friendly.
Lecturers and students of the Precision Agriculture Study Program of the Bangka Belitung State Manufacturing Polytechnic (Polman Babel) held a field study at PT. Gunung Maras Lestari (GML), Monday (05/19/2025).
This activity aims to provide students with direct experience in understanding the processing of palm oil industry waste.
A total of 30 students were accompanied by four lecturers, namely Mahmudin, S.P., M.Sc., Rizki Meliya Ningsih, S.P., M.Sc., Badriyah, S.P., M.Sc., and Priestiani, S.P., M.Sc. They directly observed various waste management processes, from solid, liquid, to gas waste.
When met on Tuesday (05/20/2025), Lecturer Mahmudin emphasized the importance of activities like this in supporting student understanding. This is part of a crucial learning process, because they see firsthand the application of theory in the field, especially in terms of environmental management and sustainability," he said.
During the visit, students were invited to explore the waste processing installation of PT. GML. They learned about anaerobic pond technology, biogas utilization, and processing organic waste into compost that is useful for surrounding plantations.
Mahmudin also emphasized that this visit is an important moment to instill sustainability values in students.
"They not only understand the theory, but are also aware of environmental responsibility and how industry can be part of the solution," he added.
Meanwhile, the management of PT. GML also welcomed the presence of Polman Babel. Manager of PT. GML, Dede, stated that his party is open to educational collaboration like this. The existence of this activity can share practices in the field between Industry and education must go hand in hand to produce competent and environmentally friendly human resources," he said.
Dede explained that PT. GML has so far complied with environmentally friendly rules in waste management. They apply the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) as well as efficient technology to reduce negative impacts on the surrounding environment.
Students are also given the opportunity to discuss directly with technicians and waste management staff. This provides real insight into the challenges and innovations faced by the industry in managing waste sustainably.
"Waste management is not as simple as imagined, but also involves technology, policy, and social awareness," he concluded.
This field study activity is expected to be the first step in strengthening the synergy between the world of education and industry, especially in the field of precision agriculture and industrial waste management," he said.
