In 2013, Simon Yudistira, a graduate of Food Technology from Pasundan University, initiated a groundbreaking journey in rainwater filtration, transforming this essential resource into a versatile option for washing, cooking, and drinking. The ingeniously processed rainwater has earned certification from the Bandung City Health Department, attesting to its safety for consumption. This marks a pivotal moment in the realm of rainwater filtration and sustainable innovation.
Simon’s system comprises seven water tanks, each capable of holding half a cubic meter. Rainwater is collected and settled in these tanks to allow sediments and pollutants to precipitate.
This water is suitable for washing, and for drinking, ultraviolet light is used to eliminate bacteria,” Simon explained, showcasing his invention on October 12, 2023.
Excessive water usage and development have made groundwater scarce or of poor quality. Simon’s innovation liberates people from dependence on groundwater, as validated by the Total Dissolve Solid (TDS) meter, indicating a mere 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) in Simon’s rainwater.
When Simon tested mineral water from his groundwater, the TDS reading was notably higher at 349 mg/L, signaling an abnormal mineral content beyond safe limits.
Simon’s filtration system involves connecting the device to electricity, utilizing nano filters to sieve particles and bacteria, and employing ultraviolet light to neutralize viruses and spore bacteria.
Rainwater Filtration Already Adopted and Purchased by Various Institutions
Simon adopted his water filtration approach inspired by bottled water companies. His seven tanks are strategically placed, with four underground to save space, and two on the third floor adjacent to the rooftop water collection pipes. Another tank is positioned in the kitchen for various domestic purposes.
The cost of his system, as per Simon, is reasonable compared to the benefits of healthier and cleaner water for a lifetime, without limitations.
“For example, for one house, one ‘toren’ or one cubic meter, approximately IDR 1,200,000, rainwater management tools (nano filter and UV light) IDR 1,800,000, pipes and gutters around IDR 1,000,000, so a total of IDR 4,000,000 for a very long period. I have applied it for 10 years in my shop,” Simon disclosed.
Simon suggests that if every house’s roof has a minimum of a 500-liter water tower, adding taps, pipes, and filtration can turn it into drinking water.
Several institutions, including Bale Bandung University, the West Java Energy and Mineral Resources Agency, SMAN 2 Padalarang, and SD Marhamah Hasanah, have already adopted and purchased Simon’s innovative device.
Also Managing Waste Independently
Simon’s commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond water. He manages waste at his home by cultivating plants with compost pots to aid kitchen waste decomposition.
“I imitate the concept of the natural ecosystem. This pot does not produce an odor because there are bacteria and oxygen. Like in the forest, if we throw garbage there, it won’t smell. But in a landfill, for example, or an empty plot, it’s closed, so there are decomposing bacteria,” he explained.
According to Simon, the pot has pores at the top and halfway up the wall, placed in a larger concrete or plastic pot.
“Kitchen waste is put in here, raw meat scraps are given to cats, plastic is sold, and if there’s leftover food waste, it’s turned into a biogas that can be used as fuel to ignite stoves,” he added.
Simon emphasizes that there is no excuse not to care for the environment. There are numerous ways to enhance the quality of life. However, despite Simon’s attempts to present his innovations to government authorities, including the Environmental Agency and the Ministry of Environment, he has faced challenges in receiving substantial responses.
Read the original article on detikedu, “Pasundan University Graduate Transforms Rainwater for Consumption Since 2013, Now Certified Safe for Consumption” here.
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