Empowering Mosque Communities with Recycled Ablution Water for Urban Hydroponic Food Resilience

¹ Agribusiness Department, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia 55183
² Agrotechnology Department, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia 55183
³ Biology Education Study Program Universitas Ahmad Dahlan Yogyakarta, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

The problem of ablution water waste at the Al-Ittihad Mosque in Yogyakarta, which amounts to more than 3,000 liters per day, and the limited availability of land for farming in urban environments, highlights the need for sustainable innovation. This program aims to develop a mosque- based hydroponic system that utilizes recycled ablution water as a source of irrigation to enhance community food security. The method employed is a community-based participatory research approach with a mixed methodology. A total of 40 participants were involved in the training and implementation of a water recycling system (sand filtration, activated carbon, and UV) and simple hydroponics. Perception surveys, KAP (Knowledge, Attitude, Practice) tests, and multidimensional sustainability assessments were conducted. The results indicated that the KAP score significantly increased by 10.5 percent, with high perceptions in the dimensions of observability and compatibility. However, complexity and cost are still cited as barriers. This program was also found to improve environmental awareness, ensure community participation, and is replicable. It is suggested that the program be scaled up by collaborating with other mosques, providing initial subsidies, and advocating for policy changes to incorporate water recycling technology into their community food security programs. This model aligns with Islamic values and supports the achievement of SDGs 2, 6, 11, and 12.