From Waste to Learning: Utilizing Agroforestry Biomass from KHDTK Pujon Hill in Mushroom Cultivation Workshops for Elementary Schools

Abstract

This community service program was conducted in partnership with SDN Bendosari 1, an elementary school directly adjacent to KHDTK Pujon Hill, Malang, East Java. The program aimed to foster environmental awareness and skills among students through a workshop on mushroom cultivation—specifically Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) and Button Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus)—using locally available agroforestry biomass waste as the main substrate. The methodology included survey and licensing, socialization, thematic environmental education sessions, practical training in making baglogs (for oyster mushrooms) and compost–casing (for button mushrooms), as well as evaluation through pretest–posttest and weekly quizzes. Results showed a significant improvement in student comprehension (correct answers in weekly quizzes increased from 15.6% in week 1 to 93.8% in week 4). Oyster mushrooms (pink and grey varieties) successfully fruited, while button mushrooms failed to produce fruiting bodies, although mycelium growth was observed. The discussion highlights success factors (availability of waste materials, suitability of simple cultivation technology, and school support) and constraints (composting protocol, casing layer quality, and microclimate control), followed by recommendations for improvement.