INTEGRATION OF WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS: A STRATEGIC APPROACH TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE GREEN CAMPUS IN THE UI GREENMETRIC FRAMEWORK

Abstract

This study aims to assess the quality of surface water flowing through the campus and analyze the composition of daily waste generated. The methodology involved surface water and waste sampling conducted in September 2023. Surface water samples were collected at three strategic points: upstream, midstream, and downstream. Parameters such as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), pH, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Nitrate (NO³-N), Dissolved Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), and oil/fats, with reference to Regulation of the Minister of Environment and Forestry No. 22/2021 concerning "Water Quality Standards" for Class 2 surface water. Waste sampling was carried out to determine the volume and composition of daily waste, categorized into organic, inorganic, and hazardous materials. The results indicate significant improvements in water quality, with reductions in TDS and BOD levels over time. However, elevated nitrate concentrations downstream pose risks of eutrophication. Waste sampling revealed an average daily generation of 3,026.34 kg, with organic waste constituting 48% and plastics 30%. Based on a traditional "collect-transport-dispose" model, current waste management practices face infrastructure limitations. This study concludes that adopting integrated strategies such as composting organic waste, implementing waste banks for plastics, and applying circular economy principles can significantly enhance environmental sustainability. These measures are critical for transforming UNP Air Tawar into a resilient green campus that addresses future ecological challenges.