PENERAPAN RUMAH PENGERING RUMPUT LAUT SYSTEM HYBRID PADA KELOMPOK TANI USAHA RUMPUT LAUT

Abstract

Seaweed farmers face significant challenges, primarily inadequate drying infrastructure. Traditional drying methods on roads disrupt traffic, limit capacity, and compromise hygiene. Seaweed is vulnerable to contamination from dust, dirt, and animals like birds. Moreover, outdated business practices hinder growth in areas like management, marketing, and finance. To address these issues, a community service project was implemented. This activity focuses on the key problems, the solutions implemented (dryer and counselling), and the positive outcomes (increased production, improved quality, and enhanced livelihoods). The result is,the introduction of solar energy dryers has significantly improved production. Daily capacity increased to around 120 kg of alkaline seaweed or 50-60 kg of dry seaweed, translating to approximately 3600 kg of wet seaweed or 1500-1800 kg of dry seaweed per month. Improved hygiene ensures higher quality seaweed. Furthermore, business counselling has enhanced management, marketing, and financial practices. The project has successfully increased business productivity, leading to higher incomes and improved livelihoods for the seaweed farmers. Keywords: Hybrid Dryer, Solar Energy, Biomass Furnace, Seaweed.