Semarang, November 2024 — Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) continues to demonstrate leadership in environmental sustainability by aligning its water quality management practices with both national regulations and best practices for ecosystem protection. The university implements policies to ensure that water used and discharged from its campus does not harm surrounding ecosystems or public health, contributing to sustainable water management at the local level.
National Water Governance Standards
Maximizing Water Reuse through Integrated Water Management at UNNES
Source: UNNES’ Documentation
Water quality governance in Indonesia is regulated under Law No. 17 of 2019 on Water Resources, and specific wastewater quality standards are set by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry Regulation No. P.68/MENLHK/Setjen/Kum.1/8/2016, which defines permissible thresholds for wastewater discharge to protect ecosystems and human health.
In line with these regulations, UNNES has institutionalized comprehensive water conservation and quality management measures as part of its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Operationalizing Water Conservation Practices
Sowing Fish Seeds in the Dam
Source: UNNES’ Documentation
As part of its Conservation University framework, UNNES incorporates rainwater harvesting systems and embung (water retention basins) that help regulate stormwater runoff, improve water retention, and maintain water quality across the campus. These systems collect and store rainwater, ensuring that local ecosystems benefit from an adequate water supply and reducing reliance on external water sources.
These conservation practices are complemented by the use of water treatment technologies that enable the production of recycled, reusable water for campus operations, ensuring that any water discharged from the campus does not negatively affect aquatic wildlife or surrounding ecosystems.
Campus Regulations to Ensure Water Quality
A Student is Refilling a Water Bottle Using the Drinking Water Filling Station at UNNES
Source: UNNES’ Documentation
UNNES also upholds water quality through Rector’s Regulation No. 21 of 2022 and Rector’s Regulation No. 109 of 2024, which establish clear criteria for water quality management across the campus. These regulations outline the university’s responsibilities in monitoring water discharge and ensure compliance with national water quality standards.
Additionally, the university implements regular monitoring and assessment of water quality to ensure that campus activities, from construction projects to daily operations, do not negatively impact the surrounding environment or public health.
Contributing to National and Global Sustainability Goals
Strengthening Regional Water Conservation through UNNES–Semarang City Government Collaboration
Source: UNNES’ Documentation
By aligning its water management policies with national regulations, UNNES contributes to Indonesia’s broader environmental sustainability goals while supporting global water governance frameworks, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). The university’s efforts to maintain water quality and reduce environmental impact are an integral part of its larger commitment to sustainable development and ecosystem preservation.
Through these proactive measures, UNNES ensures that its campus operates in harmony with nature, serving as a model for other institutions in sustainable water management.
“Water is a precious resource, and we have a responsibility to use it wisely,” said the Rector of UNNES. “Through effective water conservation practices and strict adherence to national water quality standards, UNNES is contributing to both the local and global environmental sustainability efforts.”
