Telkom University’s Commitment to Sustainable Wastewater Treatment and Reuse

Currently, Telkom University operates 28 domestic Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and several passive wastewater treatment facilities (IPAL) distributed throughout buildings and laboratories. Each unit functions to treat wastewater from toilets, cafeterias, and research facilities according to its characteristics—separating organic, chemical, and biological waste streams for effective processing. In addition to these localized facilities, the university also manages one central Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) that functions as the final stage before the treated water is released into Lake Tekno, Telkom University’s main water reservoir.

The wastewater collected from campus buildings is channeled through a dedicated sewage system that transports water from sanitation areas, laboratories, and cafeterias to treatment units. Inside these plants, the water undergoes several stages of filtration, sedimentation, and biological decomposition to remove contaminants. The process includes both mechanical and chemical treatment methods to ensure the effluent meets environmental safety standards before being discharged or reused.

After purification, the treated water flows through a final filtering system before entering Lake Tekno, which serves as a storage point for recycled water. The clean, treated water is then reused for multiple non-potable purposes across the campus, such as toilet flushing, car washing, irrigation of gardens and rice fields, and maintenance of fish ponds and aquaponics systems. This circular water management model minimizes reliance on groundwater sources and demonstrates the university’s efficiency in conserving natural resources.

Telkom University’s approach to wastewater treatment not only reduces environmental impact but also embodies the principles of sustainability and innovation in campus operations. By ensuring that all wastewater is responsibly treated through its 28 STPs, passive IPAL units, and central WWTP, the university maintains high environmental standards while supporting the well-being of its academic community. This comprehensive system reflects Telkom University’s long-term commitment to achieving SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)—building a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future for all.