Universitas Andalas KKN Students Develop Natural Adsorbent Rainwater Filtration System in Koto Panjang, Supporting SDG 6 and SDG 9

Padang Pariaman, August 10, 2024 — Universitas Andalas continues to support sustainable development through community-based innovation in line with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). Students participating in the Community Service Program (KKN) introduced a rainwater filtration system using natural adsorbents as a practical solution to clean water challenges in Nagari Koto Panjang.

The innovation focuses on utilizing locally available natural adsorbent materials to filter rainwater, making it suitable for daily use. This approach is particularly relevant in areas where access to clean water remains limited, especially during the dry season. Rainwater, which has not been optimally utilized, is processed through a simple filtration system to meet basic community needs.

Technically, the use of natural adsorbents offers significant advantages, as it can bind and remove various contaminants from water. The adsorption method is known to be effective in reducing harmful substances such as heavy metals and dissolved particles, while also being cost-effective and easy to operate. These characteristics make the technology highly suitable for implementation at the village level.

In addition to designing the filtration system, Universitas Andalas students conducted community outreach to educate residents on the proper use and maintenance of the system. This initiative aims to ensure that the technology can be operated independently and sustainably by the local community. The participatory approach also enhances community awareness of the importance of managing clean water resources using locally available materials.

The program received positive responses from the residents of Nagari Koto Panjang, as it provides a practical solution to daily clean water needs. The use of rainwater as an alternative resource also aligns with the concept of rainwater harvesting, which is considered an effective strategy to address water scarcity.

Through this initiative, Universitas Andalas students demonstrate their strategic role in bridging academic knowledge with community needs. The innovation is expected to be further developed and replicated in other regions as part of efforts to achieve sustainable and community-based water independence.