United Nations Sustainable Development
Goal 6: Clean water and sanitation
Water reuse measurement. Measure the reuse of water across the university.
UniSC measures the reuse of water by meticulously tracking the consumption of mains water versus harvested water. This involves detailed monitoring and recording of water usage across various campus facilities. The data collected helps the university understand the proportion of water being reused and identify areas where improvements can be made. For instance, at the Sunshine Coast campus, over 55% of the water used is sourced from recycled water, while at the Moreton Bay campus, approximately 10% of the water comes from recycled sources.
The university employs advanced water management systems to ensure efficient use of harvested water. These systems include the collection of rainwater and wastewater, which is then treated and reused for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, cooling towers, and toilet flushing. By using recycled water for these purposes, UniSC significantly reduces its reliance on mains water, thereby conserving this precious resource and lowering operational costs.
Regular audits and assessments are conducted to ensure the effectiveness of water reuse strategies. These audits help in identifying any leaks, inefficiencies, or areas where water conservation efforts can be enhanced. The university also engages in continuous research and development to explore new technologies and methods for improving water reuse. This proactive approach ensures that UniSC remains at the forefront of sustainable water management practices.
Moreover, UniSC’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its educational initiatives. The university actively involves students and staff in water conservation efforts through awareness campaigns, workshops, and hands-on projects. By fostering a culture of sustainability, UniSC not only reduces its environmental footprint but also prepares its community to be responsible stewards of the environment.
Summary
UniSC measures water reuse by tracking the consumption of mains versus harvested water, with over 47% at the Sunshine Coast campus and about 22% at the Moreton Bay campus coming from recycled sources.