WATER CONSERVATION POLICY

Northern Technical University Water Conservation & Reuse Policy


Introduction
Northern Technical University (NTU) recognizes the pressing need for sustainable water management practices and has adopted a comprehensive water conservation policy. This initiative not only addresses local water scarcity but also aligns with the global efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and SDG 13: Climate Action. Furthermore, NTU’s policy is designed to meet the sustainability criteria assessed in Global Rankings of universities, which evaluate the environmental commitment of institutions worldwide.

Part One: Water Neutrality by 2030
Objective: Achieve water neutrality across the university campus by 2030, minimizing the water footprint.
• Water-Efficient Infrastructure: All existing and new campus buildings will be equipped with high-efficiency water fixtures (e.g., low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets, and sensor-activated showers) to significantly reduce water usage.
• Advanced Wastewater Treatment: Ensure that 100% of greywater is treated and recycled, along with at least 50% of sewage by 2030, using cutting-edge water recycling and purification technologies.
• Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Promote the installation of rainwater harvesting systems on buildings to capture and utilize rainwater for irrigation, contributing effectively to the water neutrality goal.

Part Two: Smart Water Metering and Governance
Objective: Strengthen water usage management through advanced metering and governance practices.
• Smart Meter Installation: Increase the deployment of smart water meters across all campus buildings that provide real-time monitoring, enabling data analytics to track and reduce excessive water usage.
• Water Use Monitoring Program: Implement a comprehensive data-driven water usage monitoring program to identify areas of high consumption and inefficiency.
• Water Governance Framework: Develop a Water Governance Framework that includes educational initiatives to increase awareness among faculty, students, and staff regarding responsible water consumption practices.
• Preventive Maintenance Protocols: Establish a continuous monitoring and preventive maintenance system for all water-related infrastructures to quickly detect and repair leaks, ensuring no water is wasted.

Part Three: Sustainable Water Storage Solutions
Objective: Secure long-term water reserves through innovative and sustainable storage solutions.
• Eco-Friendly Storage Systems: Develop storage solutions such as natural ponds, recharge wells, and underground reservoirs that allow for the collection and sustainable management of conserved water.
• Evaporation Minimization Techniques: Introduce innovative methods to reduce evaporation from water storage facilities, employing evaporation suppressants and incorporating green infrastructure designs.
• Optimized Water Systems: By 2030, ensure that all water storage facilities are designed for sustainable irrigation and emergency water supply use.

Part Four: Research, Innovation, and Community Engagement
Objective: Foster innovation in water conservation through research, education, and community involvement.
• Interdisciplinary Research Opportunities: Encourage and support interdisciplinary research initiatives focusing on innovative water conservation methods,greywater recycling, desalination, and adaptive water management strategies.
• Partnerships for Best Practices: Collaborate with local and global institutions to exchange knowledge and best practices in sustainable water management, enhancing NTU’s impact in water sustainability research.
• Curriculum Integration: Embed water conservation topics across all academic programs to equip students and staff with essential knowledge for promoting sustainable practices.
• Recognition Incentives: Introduce recognition programs and incentives for students, faculty, and staff who showcase exceptional leadership and innovation in water conservation initiatives.
• Community Training Programs: Extend water conservation training programs to local communities and authorities, positioning NTU as a regional leader in sustainable water management and education.

Part Five: Prevention of Water Pollution
Objective: Prevent contamination and safeguard water quality across campus.
• Biodegradable Practices: Implement strict protocols mandating the use of non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning materials across campus facilities.
• Hazardous Waste Management: Enforce policies that prohibit the disposal of hazardous substances (chemicals, solvents, etc.) into campus drainage and sewer systems, ensuring proper disposal channels are established.
• Annual Water Quality Audits: Conduct yearly water quality audits to monitor and mitigate pollutants in campus water systems, including contaminants like pesticides and fertilizers.
• Green Landscaping Initiatives: Promote environmentally friendly landscaping practices that reduce reliance on harmful pesticides and fertilizers, thus minimizing runoff into water sources.
• Innovative Pollution Prevention Techniques: Continually explore and apply innovative pollution prevention technologies and methods, such as bioremediation and constructed wetlands, to maintain clean water ecosystems.
• Ongoing Water Quality Monitoring: Regularly test and monitor both surface and groundwater quality, ensuring compliance with national and international clean water standards.

Part Six: Water Reuse and Recycling
Objective: Maximize water reuse to decrease overall demand and enhance sustainability efforts.
• Expanded Greywater Reuse: Develop systems to utilize treated greywater for irrigation, landscaping, and other non-potable purposes throughout the campus.
• Closed-Loop Water Systems: Integrate closed-loop water systems in laboratories and facilities to facilitate the repeated use of water, significantly reducing overall consumption.
• Harvesting Rainwater for Reuse: Promote the use of collected rainwater for various appropriate campus applications, minimizing dependency on potable water supplies.
• Research on Sustainable Recycling: Invest in research to determine best practices for wastewater recycling that conserve energy and adhere to environmental guidelines while maintaining efficacy.

Note:
All provisions of this water conservation policy must be actively implemented by NTU staff and students. The policy will be subject to periodic review and updates to ensure alignment with evolving national policies and community needs. This proactive approach positions Northern Technical University as a leader in water conservation, embodying a strong commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.