Strategic Management for Enhancing Water Quality in the Barito River Basin Through Cost Optimization Using Linear Programming

The Barito River Basin, a crucial water resource in Indonesia, is facing significant environmental challenges due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural activities. These activities have led to the degradation of water quality, posing threats to both the ecosystem and the communities reliant on the river. This study proposes a strategic management framework aimed at enhancing water quality in the Barito River Basin through cost optimization using Linear Programming (LP). By integrating LP techniques, the study seeks to identify the most cost-effective measures for pollution control and resource allocation, ensuring compliance with water quality standards. The approach involves formulating an objective function to minimize the total cost of implementing water treatment and pollution mitigation strategies while satisfying constraints related to pollutant levels such as pH, Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD). The study demonstrates the application of LP in selecting optimal combinations of treatment methods, such as the use of Lime and Caustic Soda, to achieve the desired water quality at minimal costs. The results underscore the potential of LP in facilitating sustainable water management practices, balancing economic and environmental objectives, and supporting decision-makers in developing effective policies for the preservation of the Barito River Basin.