2016 Sustainability Policies and Specific Guidelines Policies and Guidelines on the Use and Conservation of Materials and Energy on Utilities (Water, Electricity, and Fuel)

Policy on the Use and Conservation of Materials and Energy on Utilities (Water, Electricity and Fuel)

The University recognizes that fresh water, electricity, and fuel are resources that need to be conserved. The University undertakes programs to reduce water consumption through natural rainwater storage systems, suitable and less water-dependent plants, and water recycling programs. The University promotes energy-saving guidelines, use of the most energy-efficient lights and equipment available, as well as the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power and other innovative means. The University focuses on emission reduction and energy efficiency in the transport sector, laboratories, kitchens and power generators.

Guidelines on the Use and Conservation of Materials and Energy on Utilities (Water, Electricity and Fuel)

Water

Procurement and Purchasing. Water use is properly monitored through sub-meters and regular data collection and feedback to units. Water supply is complimented by treated wastewater and harvested rainwater for other purposes, such as irrigation and flushing. There should be systems for rainwater harvesting, stormwater management, wastewater treatment, dual flush systems for toilets, and accessible potable water

Usage and Maintenance. Water can be optimally used and reused when information, education, and communication (IEC) programs for stakeholders, administrative support, direction from the leadership, and inter-unit communication are considered.

Waste Disposal. Rainwater is allowed to percolate to the water table instead of being channeled directly to the sewage system:

• Design of grounds and landscape for maximum surface absorption

• Use of permeable pavers

Wastewater is first treated and possibly reused before release into the public sewage systems:

• Use of treated wastewater for irrigation

• Use of harvested rainwater for flushing or irrigation

Electricity

Procurement and Purchasing. Electricity use is properly monitored through sub-meters and regular data collection and feedback to units. Electricity is conserved through:

• Installation of energyefficient lights (e.g., LED) and equipment (e.g., alternative cooling systems, inverter technology, building management systems)

• Expansion of sources of energy to include clean and/or renewable energy (e.g., natural gas, solar/wind power)

• Adoption of students’ projects on innovative sources of energy

The University should move into setting up Building Management Systems.

Usage and Maintenance. Stakeholders are properly informed of energy-saving guidelines through standard protocols. Whenever possible, gadgets and equipment are chosen for their efficiency and are operated efficiently.

Efficient Use of Airconditioning Units:

• Thermostat controls are set at 21-23℃

• Turn on/off the air-con/s 30 min before start/end of scheduled room use.

• Turn on air-con/s only as needed and on staggered basis to prevent power surge.

Lights & Equipment:

• Turn off lights during break time and at the end of the day.

• Unplug equipment after use, when applicable

Waste Disposal. The waste resulting from the use of electricity is heat. The University looks out for innovative designs to manage the heat dissipated from equipment, such as airconditioners, e.g., use of vertical gardens to absorb heat from compressors and provide insulation and designs that reuse heat for other purposes

Fuel

Procurement and Purchasing. The University promotes the use of clean and renewable energy through the use of e-vehicles, fuel-efficient and low-emission vehicles and equipment, non-motorized transport such as bicycles for in-campus logistics, centralized and secure LPG systems for laboratories (when applicable) and cafeteria.

Usage and Maintenance. Stakeholders are encouraged to use the framework of “avoid/ share/ improve” transport through standard protocols. Walking and carpooling are preferred modes of mobility.

Waste Disposal. Fuel emissions from vehicles are monitored through random tests of emissions, and sanctions on smoke belching vehicles, operation of engines while parked.

Related links:

• Ateneo Sustainability Guidelines

• Ateneo Sustainability Report 2020