SES Mahakam Lakes, Indonesia

The Mahakam Lakes in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, represent a national priority peatland wetland facing severe degradation from upstream industries and community activities. The scientific problem is the persistent failure of conventional technocratic approaches to address complex water quality challenges in tropical lowland development. This study integrated hydrochemical analysis with community perceptions using a mixed-method approach: quantitative water quality monitoring at seven stations during 2023 and 2025, and qualitative interviews with fishing communities. Hydrochemical analysis revealed "ecological shock" with total hardness spikes from