Investigation of the Potential Uses of a Low-Cost Water Purification Method in Indonesia

Abstract

Presently, in many water bodies such as rivers and lakes of developing countries, household and industrial wastewater are drained directly. The above situation leads to environmental problems such as water pollution and offensive odor. The aim of this study is to investigate the use of a small-size, low cost, and energy-efficient wastewater treatment system to decrease water pollution in rivers. In this study, Slanted Soil Chamber Method (SSCM) was used, as the system can remove organic pollutants and nitrogen in wastewater with in situ purification. The comparison between Activated Sledge and SSCM shows the differences in cost, energy used, and purification level. From previous studies, SSCM showed effectivity in removing BOD, COD, T-N, T-P, and SS. This study indicated that SSCM can demonstrate 17 % electric consumption and 74 % footprint of Activated Sledge. In addition, a survey of the sanitation and situation of wastewater treatment system was conducted in Yogyakarata and Pekalongan, Indonesia, to investigate the potential installation of SSCM. The survey finding showed that probable causes of diarrhea, malnutrition, and malaria come from poor water environment and sanitation. Considering the cost, installing footprint, and average number of people per household, SSCM can be the best suited replacement for treating water in these local areas.