Crescent Sustainability Initiatives
CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION (SDG 6)
STRATEGIC COLLABORATIONS FOR WATER SECURITY
Collaboration is a fundamental element of the B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology’s water security strategy. The university partners with local, regional, and national governments to align its water management practices with broader water security goals. By adhering to stringent environmental standards set forth by national guidelines, such as those established by the Ministry of Jal Shakthi, the institute ensures compliance and engages in proactive discussions and initiatives to enhance water security. These collaborative efforts fortify the institute’s water management framework and contribute to the surrounding community’s resilience against water-related challenges.
INNOVATIVE WATER MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
The institute has distinguished itself as a leader in sustainable water management through a suite of innovative strategies. Its approach emphasises both internal water conservation and community engagement. Advanced technologies, such as rainwater harvesting systems and Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring, have transformed the campus’s water management practices into a model of efficiency that effectively addresses the pressing challenges of water scarcity. By capturing and utilising rainwater, the university enhances groundwater levels and promotes sustainable water usage within the community, showcasing a commitment to responsible resource management.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND AWARENESS
In addition to its internal strategies, the institute prioritises community engagement to foster awareness and participation in water conservation efforts. The university cultivates a culture of environmental consciousness among students, faculty, and residents through outreach programs that include interactive competitions and educational initiatives. These initiatives inform stakeholders about the significance of water conservation and inspire collective responsibility towards sustainable practices. The institute encourages local communities to adopt similar water-saving measures daily by catalysing change.
COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
The institute’s dedication to sustainability is further exemplified by its achievements in EDGE certification, which recognizes significant reductions in energy and water usage across its facilities. Notable successes include the BSA Ladies Hostel and staff quarters, which have reported reductions of up to 37% in energy consumption and 28% in water usage. These accomplishments enhance the living conditions for residents while establishing a benchmark for future construction projects, emphasising the integration of sustainable practices in architecture and building management. By highlighting these successes, the institute reinforces its role as a leader in sustainable development, encouraging other educational institutions to adopt similar initiatives.
FUTURE VISION FOR WATER MANAGEMENT
Looking ahead, the B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology aims to expand its water management initiatives further. Plans include increasing the number of rainwater harvesting pits and conducting Geographic Information System (GIS) studies to monitor groundwater improvements. The long-term vision is to create a replicable model of sustainable infrastructure that can be adopted by other organisations seeking to minimize their environmental footprint. Through continuous improvement and active stakeholder engagement, the institute is positioned to make a lasting impact on water management practices, both within its community and beyond.
ACHIEVING EDGE CERTIFICATION
The institute’s commitment to sustainability is exemplified by the successful EDGE certification of its Ladies Hostel, which highlights significant energy, water, and material savings in building design and operations. For single-occupant rooms, there is a notable 26% reduction in energy consumption, largely due to energy-efficient features such as reflective roofing and solar water heaters, alongside a 28% decrease in water usage thanks to low-flow fixtures. These achievements improve living conditions and align with the university’s broader sustainability goals. The EDGE certification underscores the institution’s dedication to creating sustainable living environments. It sets a benchmark for future construction projects, emphasising the importance of integrating sustainable practices in architecture and building management. Moving forward, the institute remains committed to fostering a culture of sustainability, encouraging awareness and participation among all stakeholders in pursuing a greener future.
ENVIRONMENT, GREEN, AND WATER AUDIT PROCESS: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW
B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology has developed a multifaceted approach to water management, focusing on diverse sources, efficient storage, and effective distribution systems. The institution utilizes a range of water sources, including reverse osmosis (RO) water for drinking purposes, bore water sourced from depths of up to 300 feet at prominent locations such as the Science Block, and multiple open wells strategically placed near hostels and the main canteen. Additionally, the college incorporates lorry water delivered at a remarkable rate of 150 tankers monthly and an extensive rainwater harvesting system (RWHS) deployed across various building blocks to capture runoff and enhance groundwater levels.
The college employs a detailed analysis of its water utilities to optimise water usage and storage, as outlined in a comprehensive report. For instance, the Main Building includes an underground sump with 80 kilolitres (KLD) capacity, supported by robust motor systems that enable efficient water delivery to multiple sub-units, including the MBA and Canteen blocks. In contrast, the Men’s Hostel features an impressive 1,100 KLD capacity, ensuring adequate supply for residents. Regular maintenance is integral to this system, with the management team ensuring that overhead tanks and storage facilities are cleaned every six months, thus guaranteeing the quality and safety of the water supplied throughout the campus.
The institution places considerable emphasis on sustainability, particularly through its rainwater harvesting initiatives. Rainwater is collected from building rooftops and routed via an effective piping system to dedicated pits that promote groundwater recharge. Plans are underway to expand the number of rainwater harvesting pits and conduct GIS studies to monitor improvements in the groundwater table over time. Such measures highlight the proactive role that B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute plays in enhancing water conservation and management practices while also addressing community needs through increased water availability.
GREEN BUILDINGS & CERTIFICATION
- All existing buildings are registered with Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for green building certification under IGBC – EB rating
- New buildings are constructed over the last six years and those under construction are registered with GBCI EDGE and USGBC LEED for green building certification for Gold rating.
- GBCI-EDGE Green building certification received for New Ladies Hostel & New staff quarters on 23.04.2018.
- Crescent School of Architecture block is conceived as a Net Zero Energy building and registered under USGBC-LEED for Gold rating certification.
GREEN BUILDING IN CONSTRUCTION
Sustainable and eco-friendly campus development has been adopted with following materials
- Grass Crete: Method of laying Grass paver flooring, walkways, sidewalks and driveways to improve storm water absorption and drainage
- Ash Crete: Fly ash (recycled) content with cement is being used for all Reinforced Cement concrete works.
- Low – VOC paints: Painting with low VOC less than 50gm/liter is using for all painting works – Nippon and Berger
- Engineered wood: MDF (Medium Densified Fibre) wood used for interior partition, doors and furniture’s.
- Structural Insulated Panels (SIP): Foam board wall panels are used for prefab structures such as class room and indoor game space.
- Insulated Concrete Forms: GFRC Technology being adopted to construct parent waiting guest rooms and essential staff quarters.
- Steel: Steel roof panels (recyclable) used for workshop roofing.
- Composites: Roof panels made of composite materials such as foam sandwiched between two metal sheets used for prefab class room ceiling.
- Fibreglass: Fibreglass is also used in insulation in the form of Fibreglass batts for interior partition works.
- AAC Blocks: Autoclaved Aerated Concrete blocks (non- toxic product) are used for the construction of all buildings to reduce low environmental impact.
- Thermatek Roof tile: Heat Resistant Terrace tiles are used for all buildings.
- VAV system: Variable air volume HVAC system is adopted to reduce energy consumption.
EDGE GREEN BUILDINGS AUDIT
Figure VI (5.5) – 1: Photographs showing the BSA Staff Quarters
The B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, located in Chennai, has prepared students in India to pursue careers in engineering, science and technology for over 40 years. In addition to inspiring innovation among its students, the university has also chosen to improve its campus by adding green buildings. The new women’s residences and staff quarters have many green features that have all been implemented at no additional cost to the university. When utility bills are taken into consideration, the result is a positive sum gain.
The university has many green features such as solar hot water collectors and energy-saving lighting systems to reduce energy consumption, and UPVC windows to reduce embodied energy in materials. Located in a region that experiences frequent droughts and shortages of water, the university can also conserve its supply of water with the help of low-flow showerheads and faucets and dual flush water closets. The university hopes to use EDGE for future buildings on the campus, to further its resource-efficient and environmentally-friendly approach.
SUMMARY OF EDGE CERTIFICATION REPORTS
The following reports summarize the achievements of various buildings at BS Abdur Rahman University in terms of energy efficiency, water conservation, and reduced embodied energy in materials. Each building has been certified under the EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) program, which is an initiative by the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
BSA Ladies Hostel: Triple Occupants Room (28 Units)
Energy Savings: 27%
Water Savings: 27%
Less Embodied Energy in Materials: 61%
BSA Staff Quarters: 28HK Type (18 Units)
Energy Savings: 36%
Water Savings: 21%
Less Embodied Energy in Materials: 56%
BSA Staff Quarters: 38HK Type (27 Units)
Energy Savings: 37%
Water Savings: 20%
Less Embodied Energy in Materials: 55%
BSA Ladies Hostel: Single Occupant Room (91 Units)
Energy Savings: 26%
Water Savings: 28%
Less Embodied Energy in Materials: 63%
BSA Staff Quarters: 28HK Type (18 Units)
Energy Savings: 36%
Water Savings: 21%
Less Embodied Energy in Materials: 56%
Overall Impact
The certifications demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency across the university’s facilities. The significant energy and water savings, along with reduced embodied energy, contribute to lower operational costs and a smaller environmental footprint. These achievements reflect the university’s dedication to creating a sustainable living and learning environment for its students and staff.
The B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute has received final EDGE certification from GBCI India.
Figure VI (5.5) – 2: Screenshot showing the gist of Statistics of Audit conducted by EDGE
BSA Staff Quarters & Ladies Hostel – Hostel Block – GBCI EDGE Project Study
BSA Staff Quarters and Ladies Hostel – EDGE Details
EDGE GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION
Figure VI (5.5) – 3: GBCI-EDGE GREEN BUILDING Certification for Ladies Hostel
Figure VI (5.5) – 4: GBCI-EDGE GREEN BUILDING Certification for Ladies Hostel
Figure VI (5.5) – 5: GBCI- EDGE Certificate for Staff Quarters
Figure VI (5.5) – 6: GBCI- EDGE Certificate for Staff Quarters
Table VI (5.5) – 1: Indian Standards Adopted / Implemented for water conscious building
S. No. | Name of the Building | Indian Standards |
1 | Extension of Mechanical Block | Loading Standards as per BIS-875, Seismic Force as per BIS-1893 and BIS – 456 https://www.bis.gov.in/ https://standardsbis.bsbedge.com/ https://www.bis.gov.in/standards/technical-department/national-building-code/ |
2 | Aeronautical Block | |
3 | Staff Quarters | |
4 | Ladies Hostel |
• Design Brief on Electrification, Public Health Engineering Fire Fighting – Ladies Hostel
Figure VI (5.5) – 7: Water Efficiency Measures
1. SOURCE OF WATER, STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION
Table- VI (3.4) – 2 shows the source of water, location of storage along with their application.
Table VI (5.5) – 2: Source of Water, Location of Storage and Application
Type of Water | Source | Application |
Fresh Water | RO Water | Drinking application |
Bore Water | 1. Science Block – 300 Ft | Utensil Cleaning, Bathing, Cloth Washing & Gardening |
Open Well | 1. Ladies Hostel – 30 Ft 2. Mens Hostel – 40 Ft 3. Near Main Canteen – 30 Ft | |
Lorry Water | 1.150 Tankers/Month (10,000/Tank) | |
Rain Water Harvesting System (RWHS) | 1. College/Life Science Block – 1 No 2. New Architecture Block –1 No 3. Computer Science Block – 1 No 4. Pharmacy Block – 1 No 5. MS Block – 5 No’s 6. Ladies Hostel – 3 No’s 7. New Staff Quarters – 6 No’s 8. Mens Hostel – 18 No’s 9. Library Block – 1 No | · Used to increase the ground water · To store building run-off only |
2. DETAILS OF THE WATER UTILITIES, STORAGE, MOTOR CAPACITY AND APPROXIMATE RUN HOURS
The following table VI (3.4) – 3 provides the details of the Water Utilities, Storage, Motor Capacity and Approximate Run Hours available inside the college for regular application.
Table VI (5.5) – 3: Details of the Water Utilities, Storage, Motor Capacity and Approximate Run Hours
S. No. | Location | Tank Capacity | Motor Capacity | Usage |
1. | Main Building (UG Sump) (Lorry + Open well) | 80 KLD |
3 * 7.5 H.P/5 kW | Main Block 3,000 – Litters * 5 No’s (Syntax) |
MBA Block 3,000 – Litters * 2 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
1st Year Block 3,000 – Litters * 4 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
Main Canteen 3,000 – Litters * 2 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
2. | Science Block | 60 KLD |
| Science Block |
| (UG Sump) (Lorry + Open well + Bore well) |
| 2 * 7.5 H.P/5 kW | 3,000 – Litters * 4 No’s (Syntax) |
Pharmacy Block 3,000 – Litters * 2 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
GM Office 3,000 – Litters * 2 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
Power Room 3,000 – Litters * 2 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
3. | Mens Hostel – 1 (Lorry + Open well) | 1,100 KLD (New Sump Room) | 5 * 10 H.P/7.5 kW + 2 * 7.5 H.P/5 kW | A – Block 3,000 – Litters * 7 No’s (Syntax) |
B – Block 3,000 – Litters * 6 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
C – Block 3,000 – Litters * 9 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
D – Block 3,000 – Litters * 11 No’s (Syntax) | ||||
4. | Mens Hostel – 1 (Lorry + Open well) | 40 KLD (Main Block + Mess) | 1 * 7.5 H.P/5 kW + 3 * 5 H.P/3.7 kW | Main Block 3,000 – Litters * 10 No’s (Syntax) |
Mess 3,000 – Litters * 5 No’s | ||||
5. | Mens Hostel – 2 (Open well) | 60 KLD (PG Block) | 2 * 7.5 H.P/5 kW + 1 * 5 H.P/3.7 kW | Mosque 3,000 – Litters * 2 No’s |
PG Block 3,000 – Litters * 6 No’s | ||||
Incubation Block 3,000 – Litters * 4 No’s | ||||
6. | Ladies Hostel (Lorry Water) | 180 KLD | 3 * 5 H.P/3.7 kW | Main Block 3,000 – Litters * 7 No’s |
7. | Annuxer Block (Open well) | 30 Ft | 1 * 5 H.P/3.7 kW | RCC Tank 15,000 Litters |
R.O Water | ||||
1. | Main Building RO Plant | Water From Main Block Syntax Tank | Main Block – 3,000 Litter * 1 No MBA Block – 3,000 Litter * 1 No | |
2. | Science Block RO Plant | Water From Science Block Syntax Tank | Science Block+Pharmacy Block+Canteen – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
3. | New Architech RO Plant | Water From New Architech Block UG Sump | New Architech – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
4. | Auditorium RO Plant | Water From New Architech Block UG Sump | Auditorium – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
5. | Old Staff Quaters RO Plant | Water From New Architech Block UG Sump | Old Staff Quarters – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
6. | Chanceller Villa RO Plant | Water From New Architech Block UG Sump | Chanceller Villa – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
7. | N.Staff Quaters RO Plant | Water From New Architech Block UG Sump | N.Staff Quaters – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
8. | MS Block RO Plant | Water From New Architech Block UG Sump |
MS Block – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
9. | LS Block RO Plant | Water From LS Block UG Sump | LS Block – 3,000 Litters * 1 No | |
10. | Mens Hostel RO Plant | Water From New Sump Room | A,B,C,D Block – 3,000 Litters *4 No’s | |
11. | Mess + Main Block RO Plant | Water From Mess Block Syntax Tank | Mess + Main Block – 3,000 *2 No’s | |
12. | Ladies Hostel RO Plant | Water From New Block Cement Tank | New Block – 5,000 – RCC Tank |
Note:
- Over Head (OH) tanks are made using
- The maintenance team ensure to clean the tank for six months
- Bleaching power is mostly used to clean the inside
3. TREATED WATER FOR DRINKING APPLICATION
- The college management is keen on providing uninterrupted, safe and healthy drinking water to all; throughout the
- Water dispenser are provided at appropriate places offering the treated water for the students (Both Normal and Hot temperature)
- The overhead tanks storing the well water are cleaned at regular intervals and the water management team has been maintaining a cleaning schedule Utensil Cleaning, Bathing & Cloth Washing.
Figure VI (5.5) – 8: PVC and Metal Based Taping System for Water Distribution Line
4. WATER SAVINGS IN FOREIGN TOILETS
- The list of availability of Indian & Foreign style toilets are presented in the below Table- VI (3.4) – 4.
Table VI (5.5) – 4: List of Indian & Foreign Style Toilets
S. No. | Location | Description (Quantity) | ||||
Indian | Foreign | |||||
1. | Auditorium Block | 29 | 16 | |||
2. | Main Block | 24 | 6 | |||
3. | MBA Block (CBS) | 11 | 8 | |||
4. | Science Block (CSE) | 25 | 7 | |||
5. | Basic Science Block | 27 | 5 | |||
6. | Pharmacy Department | 19 | 6 | |||
7. | Mechanical Science Block | – | 89 | |||
8. | Life Science Block | – | 37 | |||
9. | New Architecture Block | – | 24 | |||
10. | Common Toilet Near Ground | – | 10 | |||
11. | Arabic College & Hostel | 44 | – | |||
12. | New Toilet Near MBA Block | – | 18 | |||
13. | Estate Office | 1 | 3 | |||
14. | Common Toilet in Sports Village | – | 4 | |||
15. | Common Toilet Towards Men’s Hostel | 2 | 6 | |||
16. | Bio Toilet Near Security Cabin & Near DATA Centre | – | 4 | |||
17. | CIIC Block | 5 | 40 | |||
18. | Firest Year Canteen | – | 4 | |||
Total | 187 | 287 |
• In general, the flush tank capacity may be 8 to 10 Litres (depends on make and model). Water savings also leads to power saving it saves the operating duration of the water pumps directly.
Figure VI (5.5) – 9: Flush Tank Button for efficient water use
5. RAIN WATER HARVESTING (RWH) – FROM BUILDING ROOF AREA & RUN-OFF AREA
- THE AUDIT TEAM appreciates the effects taken by the management of S. ABDUR RAHMAN CRESCENT INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY for harvesting the rain water almost in all buildings.
- The roof area is so arranged to collect the rainwater and then passed through proper piping system, and then bring back to the RWH pits which are located close to each
- The building run off are collected through each pit mostly located in each building. Common area and road run-off are properly collected and routed to nearby water.
Figure VI (5.5) – 10: Rain Water Harvesting Pit
6. GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR RAIN WATER HARVESTING
- RWH has been fitted with their specifications indicating their i) year of installation, ii) approximate average rainfall and duration in the RWH location and iii) filter cleaning schedule (if any).
- Conduct a GIS based study on the improvement of ground water table especially before the rainy session and after rainy Compare the data and ensure that the water table improves due to percolation of rain water.
- Similar study mast be conducted (in future) before installing an RWH and after RWH.
- Increase the of RWH pits and may be developed to place at least 2 per building.
Figure VI (5.5) – 11: Sample Name Board in front a Rain Water Harvesting System
7. GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
- It is advisable to replace all the old taps without aerator into aerator-based taps in a phased
- Aerators helps to reduce and regulate water flow and also offer the following benefits;
- Lower Water Bills & Improved Water Pressure
- Increased Filtration & Minimized Splashing
- ll the pump motor must be fitted and controlled by floating sensor and hence the motors are automatically ON and OFF. It avoids the overflow; saves water and electrical energy.
- All the buildings are fitted with water flow meters & hence the water utilization must be properly accounted. Similar to the water flow meter; energy consumption of all pumping motors is recorded using panel board meters.
- Fault and leakage in the water distribution line will be promptly informed by the respective in-charges to the maintenance team and immediately arrested.
WATER AUDIT REPORT LINK
Table VI (5.5) – 5 : Environment & Green Audit Report Details
Chapter No. | Description | Page No. |
1 | Acknowledgement | 3 |
2 | Introduction to Environment-Green Audit Process | 6 |
3 | Executive Summary | 10 |
PART-A: ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT REPORT | ||
4 | Study on Energy Consumption Pattern | 12 |
5 | Estimation of CO2 Emission and Neutralization | 15 |
6 | Usage of Chemicals, Salts & Acids | 18 |
PART-B: GREEN AUDIT REPORT | ||
7 | Water Utilization, Conservation & Water Management | 22 |
8 | Waste Handling & Management | 30 |
9 | Assessment on List of Mature Trees and Green Energy Generation | 38 |
10 | Audit Summary & Conclusion | 45 |
Annexure | Authorised Certificates of Auditor | 48 |
Figure VI (5.5) – 12: Environment and Green Audit Process
ENVIROINMENT GREEN & AUDIT REPORT LINK
COOPERATION ON WATER SECURITY: A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH
The B.S.Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology proactive engagement with various regulatory bodies, as demonstrated in the recent approval process for building regularisation under G.O. 76, reflects a cooperation model essential for effective water security. By collaborating with local planning authorities and adhering to guidelines set forth by the All India Council for Technical Education and other relevant organizations, the institution is positioning itself as a responsible stakeholder in the community. This cooperation not only ensures compliance with safety standards but also promotes sustainable practices that are crucial for water resource management.
ENGAGEMENT WITH REGULATORY BODIES
The recent correspondence from the Director of Town and Country Planning highlights the institution’s commitment to adhering to regulations and standards that ensure the safety and sustainability of its facilities. This commitment extends beyond structural integrity to encompass broader environmental concerns, including water management and conservation practices.
WATER SECURITY
The vital and limited resource of water plays a crucial role in ensuring human security within the context of the environment. Freshwater sustainability emerges as the foremost challenge in sustainable development due to its significance as our planet’s most precious and finite resource. The risks to economies, societies, and the environment escalate when a community’s water resources become scarce or vulnerable. To address the competing demands for this finite resource, a proactive integrated management approach becomes essential. Achieving water sustainability requires a collaborative, community-driven effort with active articipation from all community members. The objective is to formulate innovative and well-coordinated water management plans that prioritize value creation and security for all stakeholders.
Courtesy: Water Security and the Sustainable Development Goals – United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) & International Centre for Water Security and Sustainable Management (i-WSSM)
Figure VI (5.5) – 13: UN Water Security Guidelines and Measures adopted in the university.
BSACIST follows,
• Ministry of Jal Shakthi, Guidelines to regulate and control Ground Water Extraction in India and Other Water related Standards https://jalshakti-dowr.gov.in/
• Tamil Nadu Government Act – Regulation of water for irrigation and drinking water needs and Flood control measures. https://cms.tn.gov.in/sites/default/files/documents/wrd_e_cc_2022_23.pdf
• The Rain Water Harvesting movement launched in 2001 was the brainchild of the Honourable Chief Minister. It has had a tremendous impact in recharging the groundwater table all over Tamil Nadu. Amendments made to Section 215 (a) of the Tamil Nadu District Municipalities Act, 1920 and Building Rules 1973, have made it mandatory to provide RWH structures in all new buildings. To consolidate the gains, various measures have been taken up for rejuvenation of RWH structures created already in both public and private buildings, besides creating new ones. IEC activities will be continued in the Town Panchayats to sensitize all the stake holders to sustain the momentum. During 2011-12, in order to give a fillip to this laudable programme, the Town Panchayats have undertaken the construction of new RWH structures and renovation of old RWH structures. IEC activities are being carried out in Town Panchayat areas to sustain the momentum of the programme.
Figure VI (5.5) – 14: Poster for the Rainwater Harvesting movement launched in 2001 by the Honorable Chief Minister
- Similar to raw water measurement; water inlet to the STP & treated STP water pipe line must be fitted with flow meter and check the quantity of inlet & outlet water.
- Prepare and maintain a Single Line Diagram (SLD) for water distribution network
EFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE FOR WATER AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT
Figure VI (5.5) – 15: Existing water supply and drainage pipeline layout with width of drains, invert levels & disposal to prevent polluted water from entering the water system
- Paste water and energy saving slogans at appropriate places https://crescent.education/iqac_csi_sdg6_656_2022-23/
- Bio-Sewage Treatment Plant as it reduces the amount of energy required to operate the plant and environmental friendly operation
Figure VI (5.5) – 16: Bio-Sewage Treatment Plant
- Captures almost 100 % rain water harvesting through i) Recharging pits and ii) Open well type storage pits https://crescent.education/iqac_csi_sdg6_654_2022-23/
- Water treatment log maintained indicating the water inlet, treated and outlet water quantity
Figure VI (5.5) – 17 : Water treatment log quantity flow meter to maintain the record of treated water
- Set a policy and fix a target for usage of treated water; ensure that the plan is being executed without any deviation. Increase the percentage of usage of treated water year by year https://crescent.education/iqac_csi_sdg6_641_2022-23/
- Awareness campus must be conducted to all the stakeholders at regular interval. Thorough this initiative; Painting, Photography, Slogan and Poster making contest are conducted to create consciousness among the students and the faculties.
- Water is becoming a costly commodity and 80 % of the water requirements of this campus are met by the out sourced contract. As a result, we are promoting the conscious usage of water by all the stakeholders of the campus viz., students, scholars, faculty members, supporting staff and their families. In addition, awareness programmes such as World Water Day Celebration, Seminar on Water Usage etc., are being regularly organized.
Figure VI (5.5) – 18 : Water conscious usage – Signage Boards at Crescent Canteen
Water Management and Reuse Policy
Issue: 04; Revised on 2023
Policy Created on | July 2009 |
1st Revision amended on | IQAC Meeting held on 27th October 2017 |
2nd Revision amended on | IQAC Meeting held on 31st March 2021 |
3rd Revision amended on | IQAC Meeting held on 16th June 2023 |
6.1 STATEMENT OF POLICY
The B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology is committed to achieving the following objectives in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) – Clean Water and Sanitation:
- a) Ensure universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all stakeholders.
- b) Provide adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all, with special attention to the needs of women, girls, and vulnerable groups.
- c) Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
- d) Halve the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increase recycling and safe reuse globally.
- e) Substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and freshwater supply to address water scarcity.
- f) Implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including transboundary cooperation as appropriate.
- g) Protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers, and lakes.
- h) Expand international cooperation and capacity-building support to developing countries in water- and sanitation-related activities and programs.
- i) Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management.
6.2 REASON FOR THIS POLICY
The policy aims to provide all stakeholders with adequate water supply, sanitation, and hygiene. It emphasises maximising the collection and treatment of sewage generated and the reuse of treated wastewater sustainably, thereby reducing dependency on freshwater resources. The policy promotes treating wastewater as an economic resource.
6.3 RESPONSIBILITIES
6.3.1 Policy Principles
- a) The campus shall provide adequate water supply and maximize water reuse by adhering to the following principles:
- Equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all stakeholders.
- Access to adequate sanitation and hygiene, ending open defecation, with special attention to vulnerable groups.
- Calculation of water usage per person (students, staff, and faculty) annually.
- Improving water quality by reducing pollution and increasing recycling and safe reuse.
- Utilization of recycled/treated wastewater for beneficial purposes, such as irrigation and toilet flushing.
- Implementation of integrated water resources management at all levels.
- Protection and restoration of water-related ecosystems on campus.
- Expansion of rainwater harvesting initiatives.
- Collaboration with government, NGOs, and industries in water-related activities.
- Support for student and staff participation in water management.
6.4.1 Water Reuse Policy Objectives
- Establish a comprehensive policy to maximize water reuse across the university.
- Ensure that all new buildings adhere to water-conscious building standards that facilitate water reuse.
- Implement systems for tracking and measuring water consumption and reuse.
6.4.2 Water Reuse
- Water Reuse Policy: maximise water reuse across the university.
- Water Reuse Measurement: Measure water reuse across the university.
6.5 DISSEMINATION OF POLICY
- a) Display signage promoting water use efficiency across the campus.
- b) Conduct awareness programs at regular intervals to increase water-use efficiency.
- c) Post the policy on the Institute’s website and update it as necessary.
6.6 ENFORCEMENT OF POLICY
- a) The Director (Planning & Development) and Deputy Director monitor compliance and address breaches.
- b) Awareness of the policy among students, staff, and visitors is essential.
- c) Breaches may lead to disciplinary action as per the Institute’s code of conduct.
REGISTRAR