Crescent Sustainability Initiatives
CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION (SDG 6)
Issue:Â 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 |
6.1Â 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.
6.2Â 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:Â maximise water reuse across the university.
- Water Reuse Measurement:Â Measure water reuse across the university.
6.5Â 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.
6.6Â 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
6.4.1 – Water Reuse Policy.pdf
PROMOTION / IMPLEMENTATION/ EVIDENCE OF WATER MANAGEMENT AND REUSE POLICY
COMMITMENT TO WATER MANAGEMENT AND REUSE
The B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology has established a comprehensive Water Reuse Policy that underscores its commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management. This policy is designed to maximize water reuse across the university, ensuring that water resources are utilised efficiently and effectively. The existence of such a policy is crucial as it provides a structured framework for implementing various water conservation strategies, including rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment, and advanced technologies for monitoring water consumption. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) – Clean Water and Sanitation, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to safe water and the sustainable management of water resources.
IMPLEMENTATION OF EFFECTIVE WATER MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES
Evidence supporting the effectiveness of this policy is demonstrated through the implementation of multiple water management initiatives. The university has developed a sophisticated rainwater harvesting system that captures runoff from building rooftops, significantly enhancing groundwater recharge. Additionally, the institution operates a network of five sewage treatment plants (STPs) that recycle wastewater for non-potable applications, such as gardening and toilet flushing. The total volume of treated water from these initiatives is substantial, with the university recycling approximately 29,461 cubic meters of water annually. Furthermore, the institution generates about 23,568 cubic meters of sewage annually, with 21,211 cubic meters treated effectively, showcasing a proactive approach to addressing water scarcity challenges.
TRANSPARENCY AND PUBLIC ACCESS TO EVIDENCE
The evidence regarding the university’s water management practices is publicly accessible, showcasing the institution’s transparency and accountability in its sustainability efforts. Detailed reports on water consumption, treatment processes, and the effectiveness of various initiatives are available for review on the university’s website. This openness fosters a culture of environmental consciousness among students, faculty, and the broader community, encouraging collective responsibility for water conservation. The public availability of this information not only enhances stakeholder engagement but also serves as a valuable resource for other institutions looking to adopt similar practices.
POLICY REVIEW AND COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
The Water Reuse Policy has undergone several revisions to ensure its relevance and effectiveness, with the most recent review occurring in 2023. This continuous improvement process reflects the university’s proactive approach to adapting to new challenges and advancements in water management practices. Previous revisions were made in 2017 and 2021, indicating a commitment to evolving practices. This ongoing review process ensures that the university remains at the forefront of sustainable water management, aligning its practices with contemporary sustainability goals and regulatory compliance.
SUMMARY
In summary, the B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology’s water management and reuse policy is well-defined and supported by substantial evidence of effective practices. The institution actively promotes the availability of free drinking water through strategically installed water dispensers and Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants, ensuring that clean and safe drinking water is accessible to all campus community members. The public availability of this information further enhances the university’s commitment to sustainability and serves as a model for other institutions aiming to implement similar water conservation strategies. By maximizing water reuse and promoting responsible resource management, the university addresses its own water needs and contributes to broader environmental sustainability efforts, setting a benchmark for responsible water management in educational institutions.
