Water Management Policy

Policy Statement

This policy outlines Sakarya University's commitment to reducing water consumption, increasing water reuse, and promoting sustainable practices across the campus. By implementing these guidelines, we aim to minimize our environmental impact, support sustainable water resource management, and reduce energy costs.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Set achievable goals for water conservation and preservation efforts.
2. Strengthen environmental sustainability efforts in line with responsible consumption and preservation of water resources.
3. Establish guidelines to ensure sustainable water management in university facilities.

Scope

This policy applies to all departments, facilities, and individuals on university property, including academic buildings, dormitories, administrative offices, sports facilities, and open spaces.

Policy Guidelines

1. Water Reuse Practices

• Greywater Systems: Plan for greywater systems in new buildings and major renovation projects to reuse water from sinks, showers, and other non-potable sources for toilet flushing, irrigation, and other appropriate uses.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Install rainwater harvesting systems where feasible to collect and store rainwater for use in landscaping, sports fields, and non-potable applications.
• Condensate Recovery: Recover and reuse condensate water from air conditioning systems.

2. Irrigation and Landscaping Arrangements

• Efficient Irrigation: Minimize water usage by using low-flow irrigation systems and controllers based on weather conditions or soil moisture levels.
• Drought-Resistant Landscaping: Reduce irrigation needs by using native and drought-resistant plants to ensure resilience to local climate conditions.
• Smart Monitoring: Install systems to monitor water usage in real-time for irrigation and quickly address leaks or inefficient practices.

3. Facility and Equipment Upgrades

• Water-Efficient Fixtures: Select water-saving faucets, showerheads, toilets, and urinals for all new installations and replacements.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically inspect and maintain plumbing, irrigation systems, and water reuse facilities to prevent leaks and inefficiencies.

4. Awareness and Education

• Training and Information: Conduct regular training and workshops on the importance of water conservation and reuse for staff, faculty, students, and the local community.
• Water Conservation Campaigns: Organize campaigns to promote water-saving behaviors, report leaks, and use water-efficient practices.
• Signage and Information: Place informational signs at strategic points across the campus to remind about water conservation practices and explain ongoing water reuse initiatives.

5. Monitoring, Reporting, and Accountability

• Water Usage Audits: Conduct regular water usage and wastewater audits to evaluate consumption patterns, identify areas for improvement, and track progress towards conservation goals.
• Annual Reporting: Publish an annual report detailing progress, achievements, areas for improvement, and next steps related to water usage and reuse.
• Goal Setting and Evaluation: Set measurable targets for water savings and annually evaluate the effectiveness of this policy, making adjustments as necessary.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Foster collaborations with national and local governments for water management processes.

Compliance and Implementation

• Unit Responsibilities: Each unit is responsible for implementing this policy within its area and reporting water waste or inefficient practices.
• Sanctions for Non-Compliance: Take corrective actions for units or individuals found not complying with the policy guidelines, particularly regarding intentional water waste.

Review and Updates

This policy will be periodically reviewed to ensure alignment with best water management practices and evolving environmental sustainability goals.

Effective Date

This policy will take effect on [Insert Date] following approval by university administration.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sakarya University is dedicated to creating a sustainable campus for future generations. By maximizing water reuse, we contribute to the conservation of natural resources and set a leadership example in environmental responsibility.