Critical indicators for determining sustainable domestic wastewater management for the achievement of SDG goal 6

Achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Indicator 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation, is essential for promoting environmental sustainability and protecting public health. This study aims to identify critical indicators that can enhance domestic wastewater management in Indonesia in support of SDG 6. A systematic literature review was conducted, examining 56 peer-reviewed English-language articles published between 2011 and 2024, primarily from developing country contexts. The articles were sourced from reputable databases, including Scopus, Springer, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Taylor & Francis. The review identifies three main categories of indicators: local context (e.g., community awareness and socio-cultural practices), support (e.g., institutional capacity and regulatory frameworks), and technical (e.g., adoption of low-cost, context-appropriate technologies). These categories encompass five key dimensions: sociocultural, economic, environmental, institutional, and technological. Among these, the sociocultural, economic, and environmental dimensions—grouped under local context—emerge as the most frequently discussed and strongly interrelated in influencing sustainable management. Institutional and policy-related indicators, though less emphasized in the literature, are vital for ensuring compliance, stakeholder participation, and long-term governance. Technical indicators reflect the importance of applying effective, affordable, and locally adaptable treatment solutions. Based on these findings, the study proposes an integrated approach to domestic wastewater management that includes: (1) fostering community engagement while respecting socio-cultural and economic conditions; (2) strengthening institutional and regulatory support; (3) promoting stakeholder education and capacity building; (4) implementing appropriate and sustainable technologies; and (5) establishing robust monitoring and evaluation systems. The adoption of these measures can contribute to more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable domestic wastewater management systems, thereby advancing the achievement of SDG Indicator 6.