Raihanah Hafizhah, an Environmental Health student, and the Ranah Balingka Beremas Patriot Expedition Team, under the direct guidance of Field Supervisor Ahmad Hakim Bintang Kuncoro, S.T., M.Eng., successfully developed a simple biofilter for water purification in Desa Baru Village, Ranah Batahan District, Pasaman Barat, Sumatera Barat. This innovation arose in response to the limited access to clean water, which remains a major issue for the local community, particularly in supporting environmental health and quality of life.
The developed biofilter is designed using readily available, environmentally friendly, and low-cost materials such as silica sand, activated carbon, zeolite, and Moringa Oleifera seeds, allowing for independent application and maintenance by the community. The filtration system works gradually to reduce turbidity, odor, and pollutant particles in the water, resulting in clearer water suitable for daily use.
The successful implementation of this simple biofilter demonstrates the students’ role in providing science-based solutions and local empowerment. Through this innovation, the Patriot Expedition Team not only contributes to improving clean water quality, but also raises public awareness of the importance of preventive measures in maintaining environmental health in a sustainable manner.