In the densely populated region of Sidoarjo, East Java, Indonesia, the LUSI mud volcano has been a persistent challenge since its eruption in 2006. Beyond the immediate environmental and infrastructural disruptions, the mud volcano has significantly impacted the local water supply, posing serious health risks to the community. A recent study published in *Известия Томского политехнического университета: Инжиниринг георесурсов* (Proceedings of Tomsk Polytechnic University: Georesource Engineering) sheds light on the groundwater quality and associated health risks in this area, offering critical insights for both public health and the energy sector.
The study, led by Ilham Putra Adiyaksa from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT), analyzed the physicochemical characteristics of groundwater around the LUSI mud volcano. The findings reveal that the groundwater in the area is heavily polluted, particularly due to elevated levels of chlorides and manganese. “The chemical composition of the examined groundwater is characterized as calcium chloride type, with overall quality classified as heavily polluted,” Adiyaksa noted. This pollution poses non-carcinogenic health risks, especially for children, due to high manganese concentrations.
The research employed a pollution index to classify water quality and used the US Environmental Protection Agency’s method to assess health risks, including potential cancer risks. While the current mercury levels do not pose a significant health risk, the study underscores the urgent need for ongoing monitoring and remediation of water sources in the LUSI area. “Ongoing monitoring and remediation of water sources in the LUSI area are highly required to improve groundwater quality as a source of clean water,” Adiyaksa emphasized.
For the energy sector, the implications are substantial. The LUSI mud volcano is a unique geological phenomenon that has disrupted local infrastructure and natural resources. Understanding the groundwater quality and associated health risks is crucial for developing sustainable water management strategies in areas affected by similar geological activities. This research could inform future projects in the energy sector, particularly those involving drilling and extraction activities, by highlighting the importance of environmental impact assessments and the need for robust water treatment solutions.
The study’s findings also have broader implications for public health and policy-making. With only 37% of the population in Sidoarjo served by the local water treatment company, PDAM Delta Tirta Sidoarjo, the rest of the community must find reliable access to clean water independently. This underscores the need for improved water infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to ensure access to safe drinking water for all residents.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, studies like this one are more important than ever. They provide a roadmap for addressing the complex interplay between geological phenomena, public health, and sustainable development. By highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and remediation, this research offers a critical step toward ensuring clean water sustainability in affected regions.
In the broader context, the study’s findings could influence policy decisions and technological advancements in water treatment and environmental management. For the energy sector, it serves as a reminder of the importance of integrating environmental considerations into project planning and execution. As Adiyaksa’s research demonstrates, the path to sustainable development lies in a holistic approach that prioritizes both human health and environmental preservation.