In a move to strengthen water conservation and environmental management, the Selangor Water Management Authority (LUAS) has implemented the Zero Discharge Policy (ZDP) — a regulatory framework aimed at eliminating the discharge of untreated wastewater into natural water bodies.
Gazetted on 20 June 2024, ZDP represents a significant shift in how industries and water-related operations in Selangor must manage effluent discharge, pushing for sustainable, compliant, and traceable wastewater practices.
What is ZDP?
ZDP, or Dasar Pelepasan Sifar, is a policy framework that requires all water-related industries to eliminate untreated wastewater discharge into the environment. The main objective is to preserve Selangor’s water resources by enforcing stricter control over water quality and pollutant levels.
This policy is enforced by LUAS (Lembaga Urus Air Selangor) and aligns with broader goals under the Environmental Quality Act 1974, reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable water governance.
ZDP Licensing Structure
Under ZDP, there are two main licensing categories depending on the nature and volume of effluent produced:
1. Air Kembalian (AK) – Returned Water License
This applies to any activity that returns treated water to the environment, such as drains, rivers, or natural water sources. It measures volume-based discharge and is reviewed monthly.
2. Bahan Pencemar (BP) – Pollutant License
Applicable to operations without a proper Industrial Effluent Treatment System (IETS). Industries discharging less than 60 m³/day of effluent with ≤ 60 mg/L of BOD or suspended solids can apply for this license. The fee is based on pollutant concentration and compliance.
*If your facility lacks an IETS, a BP license is mandatory.
Who Must Comply?
ZDP applies to a wide range of industries and activities, including:
- Aquaculture (freshwater, brackish, and marine)
- Earthwork and land development
- Poultry and ruminant livestock farming
- Animal shelters and slaughterhouses
- Sand and quarry material washing
- Industrial manufacturing
- Recreational lakes or artificial ponds
- Water and sewage treatment services
- Solid waste and recycling facilities
Regardless of scale, all entities must obtain at least an AK license.
Application and Payment Requirements
After receiving notification from DOE (Department of Environment), you are advised to:
- Apply swiftly via the LUAS online portal or contact their licensing department.
- Prepare technical documentation of your effluent treatment method (if any).
- Make monthly payments based on:
- AK: Volume of discharged water.
- BP: Measured concentration of pollutants.
Why ZDP Compliance Matters
By aligning with ZDP, your business will:
- Ensure compliance with LUAS and DOE regulations.
- Avoid penalties and enforcement actions.
- Protect Selangor’s valuable water resources.
- Position itself as an environmentally responsible operator.
How Cheme Advance Can Help
At Cheme Advance, we offer tailored support to help your operations comply with ZDP:
- IETS design, installation, and upgrade services
- Consultation for AK/BP licensing documentation
- Effluent testing & compliance monitoring
- Long-term O&M and optimization for wastewater treatment
With over 20 years of experience, we’re your trusted environmental solutions provider for navigating Selangor’s evolving water regulations.
Take Action Today
Water security is a shared responsibility. ZDP is not just a regulation—it’s a commitment to sustainable industry and clean water for future generations.
🔗 Contact Us to assess your ZDP compliance
