6.5 – Water in the community

6.5.6 – Promoting conscious water usage on campus

At Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), promoting conscious water usage is essential for fostering sustainability and protecting our vital water resources. We encourage all members of the UKM community such as students, faculty, and staff to actively participate in water conservation efforts. Some promoting conscious water usage available in 2023:  

1. Awareness Campaigns, Efficient Water Fixtures and Regular Monitoring

Figure below shows the water saving campaign at UKM emphasizes the importance of water conservation amidst increasing demand due to population growth and industrialization. Key strategies for saving water include: shutting off taps when not in use to avoid wastage, utilizing water-saving toilet systems, checking for and repairing leaks, reducing shower time to five minutes, only running washing machines when full, limiting car washes to once a week, and harvesting rainwater for non-potable uses. With Malaysia receiving an average of 3000 mm of rainfall annually, implementing these practices can lead to significant water savings, fostering a sustainable approach to water management on campus. The campaign encourages the UKM community to adopt these practices to ensure water security for future generations.

The Water Saving Campaign at UKM is an initiative designed to promote conscious water usage and conservation within the university community. By raising awareness through workshops, seminars, and educational materials, the campaign encourages students, faculty, and staff to adopt effective water-saving practices such as turning off taps when not in use, taking shorter showers, and utilizing water-efficient fixtures. Collaboration with student organizations further enhances engagement through competitions, clean-up drives, and community outreach programs focused on sustainable water use. The campaign also includes monitoring systems to track water consumption and recognize departments or individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to conservation. Through these collective efforts, UKM aims to foster a culture of water stewardship, reduce its water footprint, and ensure responsible use of this vital resource for future generations.

2. Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting at UKM exemplifies the university’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By harnessing the power of nature, this innovative initiative captures rainwater from rooftops and surfaces, channeling it into storage tanks for practical use. This precious resource is then utilized for non-potable applications, including landscape irrigation, toilet flushing, and cleaning, significantly reducing reliance on treated water and minimizing environmental impact. UKM has strategically implemented multiple rainwater harvesting systems throughout its campus, making a tangible contribution to water conservation while fostering a culture of sustainability among students and staff. By adopting this proactive approach, UKM not only alleviates pressure on local water resources but also enhances its resilience against water scarcity challenges. This initiative underscores the university’s leadership in promoting eco-friendly practices, inspiring the entire community to embrace sustainable solutions and work collectively towards a more sustainable future for generations to come. Figure below shows the rainwater harvesting at UKM as part of its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation.

Promoting conscious water usage at UKM is a vital initiative that reflects the university’s dedication to sustainability and the responsible management of water resources. Through comprehensive campaigns that raise awareness, educate the community, and encourage the adoption of water-saving practices, UKM empowers students, faculty, and staff to actively participate in conservation efforts. The integration of efficient water fixtures, regular monitoring, and the innovative implementation of rainwater harvesting systems further demonstrate UKM commitment to reducing its water footprint and enhancing resilience against water scarcity challenges. By fostering a culture of water stewardship, UKM not only addresses immediate water management issues but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of vital water resources for future generations. This collaborative approach positions UKM as a leader in environmental conservation, inspiring the entire community to embrace sustainable practices and work together towards a more sustainable future.