Domestic Wastewater Treatment Technologies for the Small-Scale Food Processing Industry in Indonesia: A Review Husna Muizzati Shabrina (a*), Nuha Amiratul Afifah (a), Yudhistira Saraswati (b), Muhammad Iqbal Miftahudin (a), Febrica Citra Faradilla (a), Ufiya Cahaya Adhina (a)
a) Department of Environmental Engineering, UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, Jl. Padjajaran Ringroad no 104, Sleman 55283, Indonesia
*husna.muizzati[at]upnyk.ac.id
b) Department of Agribusiness, Jl. Padjajaran Ringroad no 104, Sleman 55283, Indonesia
Abstract
As Indonesia experiences rapid urbanization and industrial growth, managing wastewater effectively has become imperative to mitigate environmental pollution and safeguard public health. This review aims to identify and evaluate the effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and suitability of different treatment methods within the Indonesian context. Indonesia^s small-scale food processing sector, which includes activities like tofu production, palm sugar processing, and fish processing, produces substantial amounts of wastewater rich in organic matter and nutrients. Conventional treatment systems such as septic tanks and simple filtration units are commonly used but often fail to meet environmental regulations due to design flaws and inadequate maintenance. Advanced treatment technologies, including anaerobic digestion, constructed wetlands, and biofilters, have been introduced with varying levels of success. Anaerobic digesters are recognized for their ability to reduce organic load while generating biogas, providing a renewable energy source. Constructed wetlands are noted for their low operational costs and adaptability to different scales of operation, making them suitable for rural and semi-urban areas. The review also addresses the challenges small-scale food processors face, including financial limitations, lack of technical knowledge, and insufficient regulatory support, which impede the adoption of advanced treatment technologies. Recommendations for policy interventions include providing financial incentives, technical training, and fostering public-private partnerships to enhance the implementation of sustainable wastewater management practices. In conclusion, the adoption of appropriate wastewater treatment technologies in Indonesia^s small-scale food processing industry is crucial for environmental sustainability and public health. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders are essential to overcome existing barriers and promote the effective management of wastewater.
