1. Title of the Practice Screening and Detoxification of Toxic Compounds in Used Cooking Oil through Microbial Biodegradation and Awareness Initiative

2. Objectives of the Practice

• • 2.1 To analyse the quality of repeatedly used cooking oils by detecting harmful compounds such as peroxides, aldehydes, and free fatty acids (FFA).
• • 2.2 To isolate and identify lipolytic microorganisms capable of degrading toxic components present in used cooking oil (UCO).
• • 2.3 To create awareness among food vendors and the public about the health hazards of reused cooking oil.
• • 2.4 To develop a simple domestic testing approach for assessing oil quality.
• • 2.5 To promote sustainable practices by suggesting conversion of waste oil into biodiesel.

3. Context of the Practice Repeated use of cooking oil is a common practice due to economic constraints, especially in small food establishments. However, reheating oils leads to oxidation, hydrolysis, and polymerisation, producing toxic compounds such as peroxides, aldehydes, and trans fats. These compounds are associated with serious health risks like Cardiovascular diseases, Hypertension, Diabetes, Cancer (colorectal, breast, prostate, etc.). Despite these risks, there is limited awareness and lack of simple testing methods for oil quality at the community level. Hence, this practice addresses both environmental sustainability and public health concerns.

4. The Practice The analytical findings revealed a significant increase in harmful compounds in reused cooking oil, with Sample 7 exhibiting elevated free fatty acid (FFA) levels (0.39%) beyond permissible limits, and Sample 8 showing a high peroxide value (28 mEq/kg). Furthermore, all samples tested positive for aldehydes, confirming the presence of toxic degradation products. Scientifically, the study successfully achieved the isolation of lipolytic microorganisms capable of degrading oil contaminants and demonstrated notable microbial diversity, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative rods. The awareness initiatives had a meaningful impact, as vendors gained a better understanding of the health risks associated with reused oil and recognized the importance of regular quality monitoring, thereby encouraging a shift toward safer food practices. From a sustainability perspective, the study promoted the conversion of waste cooking oil into biodiesel, contributing to environmental protection and supporting the waste-to-energy concept. Additionally, the project had a strong educational impact by enhancing student learning through hands-on, project-based research and by fostering essential skills in analytical techniques, microbiology, and environmental responsibility.

1. Title: Sustainable Green Campus Initiative: Cocos Leaf Composting, Vermicompost Production, and Biochar Microbial Consortium for Enhanced Soil and Plant Health

3. Context of the Practice The increasing generation of agricultural and garden waste, particularly fallen Cocos nucifera leaves, poses a significant challenge in terms of disposal and environmental sustainability. Conventional practices such as burning or uncontrolled decomposition contribute to environmental pollution and loss of valuable organic resources. At the same time, excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers has led to soil degradation, reduced microbial diversity, and declining soil health. To address these concerns, there is a growing need for eco-friendly, sustainable waste management practices that can convert organic residues into valuable inputs for agriculture.

4. The Practice The practice involved three interconnected components: microbial-assisted leaf composting, vermicompost production, and biochar–vermicompost enrichment and application. Initially, fallen Cocos nucifera leaves were collected and treated with a microbial consortium consisting of Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Streptomyces, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Rhizopus, and Trichoderma species. This resulted in well-decomposed compost within 45 days, which was then transferred to vermicomposting units containing earthworms (Eisenia fetida). Finally, enrichment with biochar improved carbon retention and nutrient-holding capacity. The resulting products were applied to the institution’s garden for growth studies on Coriandrum sativum, Mentha spicata, and Trigonella foenum-graecum, showing significant improvements in plant vigor and soil moisture retention.