The South Jakarta Environment Agency in synergy with Rumah Sosial Politik, launched the Sekolah Tersenyum program (Receive Used Cooking Oil Alms for the Needy) at SDN Pejaten Barat 01, Pasar Minggu Sub-district.

Used cooking oil can be a means of giving charity as well as caring for the environment

South Jakarta Environment Sub-agency Head, Mohamad Amin said the Sekolah Tersenyum program was aimed to foster good character, thus students care more about the surrounding environment.

"We give them (students) understanding about cooking oil which, if used repeatedly more than three times, can contain dangerous, carcinogenic substances that can trigger cancer," he expressed, Wednesday (1/10).

He explained if used cooking oil is not managed well, such as if it is thrown onto the ground, sink, or drains, it can pollute the environment, smell, and cause the drains to become clogged.

"That's why, we need to provide education from an early age about the importance of managing used cooking oil. Through further processing, used cooking oil can be used as biodiesel," he explained.

It also teaches them to give charity through used cooking oil. Later on, the money from selling used cooking oil will be used for social activities.

"Hope it can create a healthy, safe, and comfortable environment for all of us," he added.

SDN Pejatan Barat 01 Principal, Sulamun uttered that the program was in line with the school's vision and mission, namely, excellence in achievement and excellence in virtue.

"Used cooking oil can be a means of giving charity as well as caring for the environment. This program is also a follow-up to the Adiwiyata School program, all school members must implement the Environmental Culture Care Movement at School," he said.