Utilization of Watermelon Rind (Citrullus lanatus) for Bioethanol Production as Waste Treatment or Conversion of Waste into an Energy Source

Watermelon peel (Citrullus lanatus), which has so far been regarded as organic waste or garbage, has great potential to be utilized as a raw material for bioethanol production. The main contents of watermelon peel, namely carbohydrates—especially cellulose, hemicellulose, and simple sugars—allow fermentation processes to produce bioethanol as a renewable energy source. This study aims to explore the utilization of watermelon peel as a basic material for bioethanol through hydrolysis and fermentation stages using ethanol-producing microorganisms. By utilizing watermelon peel, it is expected to reduce organic waste problems while producing sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative energy. The research results show that watermelon peel can be fermented into bioethanol in significant amounts, making it a viable alternative energy source. Thus, the utilization of watermelon peel not only contributes to organic waste management but also supports the development of new renewable energy as a solution to the fossil energy crisis.