This activity involved students from the 2022 cohort of the Chemistry Undergraduate Program, as well as final-year students.

The course is taught by lecturers from the Analytical Chemistry Research Group, including Dr. Muhammad Yudhistira Azis, S.Si., M.Si.; Dr. Rusnadi, S.Si., M.Si.; and Prof. Ir. Muhammad Ali Zulfikar, M.Si., Ph.D. The fieldwork received support from PT IBANTOS Teknologi Hijau and the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) ITB.

The Cijulang River, approximately 15 km long, is one of the longest rivers in Pangandaran Regency. It flows through the renowned Green Canyon tourist area and mangrove forests, originating from two main sources: the Cibodas River and the Merejan River. Unfortunately, the river's condition is increasingly threatened by erosion, pollution from aquaculture waste, and sedimentation.

During this fieldwork, students monitored surface and groundwater quality in the Cijulang River across three distinct activity zones: the mangrove area, the aquaculture zone, and the Batukaras port. In addition to direct field measurements, the activity also involved the participation of local residents, who provided initial information regarding environmental pollution, which served as a reference for sample collection.

On-site measurements included physical water properties such as pH, DO (Dissolved Oxygen), TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), temperature, COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), alkalimetry, acidimetry, and hardness levels. Furthermore, samples were also analyzed in the laboratory to determine the content of heavy metals and organic pollutants. This diverse range of measurements aimed to provide students with a direct understanding of applying water quality analysis techniques.

This fieldwork also served as a means to develop students' practical skills in sampling, designing analytical methods, and independently preparing equipment and materials. It also equips them with essential skills for their future final assignments.

Yayat S., Chairman of the Fishermen's Association at Nusawiru Pier Fish Landing Base (PPI), expressed his appreciation for this activity, stating that it helped convey important information about the water conditions in his area.

Meanwhile, Prof. Ir. Muhammad Ali Zulfikar, Ph.D., Coordinator of the Environmental Chemistry course and Head of the Chemistry Research Group at FMIPA ITB, explained that this activity provided a platform for chemistry students to apply analytical and sampling techniques in the field.

This activity also broadened their understanding of communicating environmental quality conditions to the community," he concluded.

Reporter: Muhammad Yudhistira Azis (Chemistry Study Program)
Translator: Atika Widya Nurfaizah (Postharvest Technology, 2021)