Web-based system for visualisation of water quality index

Abstract

Data visualisation is an essential tool for effective communication and interpretation of information. Visualisation of information using images is easier compared to numerical values. Google Earth provides a platform for a practical monitoring site visualisation system. A real-time web-based water quality monitoring system was deployed on Google Earth based on National Water Quality Index of Malaysia (NWQI). The system used graphical representation through vary shape and colour for easy interpretation of water quality status. NWQI index uses; pH, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids and ammonical nitrogen. The use of different colour, shades of a hue and shapes for the system can motivate public to participate in environmental conservation. The colour used to represent WQI value on the map is derived from a single hue scheme of different quantities which produce varying brightness and shades. Web-based WQI index can be used to identify pollution sources based on the graphical representation of water quality trend. The system is assessed by evaluating spatial variations water quality of a river in Peninsular Malaysia known as Langat River for 2005, 2010 and 2015. The water quality index status through visualisation can be accessed at the following URL – http://www.umlivinglabsystem.com/SiteViewer/SiteViewerAvgSL.

KEYWORDS:

• Water quality index
• web-based system
• visualisation
• river
• water quality
• environmental science

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, S M & C H, upon reasonable request. The referred data used for this study are courtesy of Department of Environment Malaysia.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by UMRG grant of University of Malaya Living Lab LL023-16SUS.