CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION
BML Munjal University (BMU) demonstrates a robust commitment to environmental sustainability, particularly in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG-6), which focuses on ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. This report highlights the university’s significant achievements in sustainability and identifies areas for further improvement based on a thorough assessment.
BMU has made impressive strides in aligning its operations with SDG-6 through a comprehensive approach to water management, environmental education, and community outreach. The university’s staff display a high level of environmental awareness and proactive engagement, fostering a strong institutional culture of sustainability. BMU maintains an up-to-date database of its environmental and green initiatives, ensuring effective decision-making and resource management.
Water use management at BMU is both transparent and conscientious, with detailed records of water usage for human consumption and landscaping. This meticulous monitoring is essential for achieving SDG-6 objectives. Similarly, the university’s energy usage data reflects its sustainable approach to energy management, which indirectly supports water conservation through improved energy efficiency.
The installation of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) on campus underscores BMU’s commitment to water sanitation and reuse. Detailed records of treated water quality and quantity are maintained, and the treated water is effectively reused for gardening and flushing, thereby reducing freshwater consumption and promoting resource efficiency. Additionally, labelling most trees on campus with their general and botanical names enhances environmental education among students and staff.
BMU’s sustainability efforts also encompass social dimensions, including the active inclusion of women in climate-related initiatives, highlighting the university’s dedication to gender equality within its sustainability agenda. The university’s comprehensive environmental policy, which addresses air quality and other critical aspects, serves as a foundational document for its sustainable practices.
BMU’s proactive approach to climate mitigation is evident in its plantation policy and action plan aimed at increasing green cover on campus. The university also employs innovative practices, such as maintaining e-library usage records and planning for digital resources, to reduce paper consumption and support environmental sustainability.
Community engagement is another strength of BMU’s sustainability initiatives. The university’s staff and students actively participate in environmental improvement activities, fostering a community-driven approach to sustainability. BMU’s food waste management practices, including awareness campaigns, composting, and the use of compost in landscaping, exemplify circular economy principles in action.
Sustainable consumption on campus is encouraged through the presence of on-site grocery and stationery shops, which reduce travel needs and conserve time and fuel. Furthermore, BMU conducts regular awareness programs, tree plantation drives, and outreach activities in neighbouring villages, extending the message of environmental sustainability beyond campus boundaries.
The university’s National Cadet Corps (NCC) and National Service Scheme (NSS) initiatives, which include tree planting, awareness campaigns, and community service activities, reflect BMU’s commitment to instilling environmental responsibility in its students. Additionally, the university’s tobacco-free policy and use of sustainable infrastructure, such as water-based paints and adherence to environmental regulations, further demonstrate BMU’s dedication to maintaining a healthy and sustainable campus environment.
Research Insights:
At BMU, our research aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Our work focuses on addressing emerging water pollutants—such as dyes and antibiotics—by developing innovative, sunlight-driven semiconductor-based photocatalysts. These photocatalysts harness solar energy to convert harmful organic pollutants into non-toxic byproducts like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water, thus contributing to cleaner water and better sanitation.
Our research is conducted at the Centre for Advanced Materials and Devices (CAMD) at BMU, where we synthesize and characterize a range of non-toxic, non-noble metal-based semiconductor photocatalysts. This work is crucial for enhancing water quality and developing sustainable solutions for water treatment. Notable publications reflecting our progress in this area include:
- Barman, S.; Singh, B.; Bag, A. “Visible light driven photocatalytic degradation of Methyl Orange by Fe2O3-BiOCl0.5Br0.5 heterojunction photocatalyst” Asia Pacific Journal of Chemical Engineering, 2021, DOI: 10.1002/apj.2715.
This study explores the effectiveness of a Fe2O3-BiOCl0.5Br0.5 heterojunction photocatalyst in degrading Methyl Orange under visible light, demonstrating its potential for treating contaminated water.
- Ashraf, W.; Bansal, S.; Singh, V.; Barman, S.; Khanuja, M.* “BiOCl/WS2 hybrid nanosheet (2D/2D) heterojunctions for visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of organic/inorganic water pollutants” RSC Advances, 2020, 10, 25073-25088. https://doi.org/10.1039/d0ra02916e.
This publication details the development of a BiOCl/WS2 hybrid nanosheet heterojunction for the efficient degradation of both organic and inorganic pollutants in water, emphasizing its relevance for improving water quality.
In addition to photocatalysis, we are also committed to sustainable waste management. Our research includes converting agricultural waste, such as wheat straw, into valuable materials like nanocellulose. Nanocellulose, known for its high surface area and non-toxic properties, is employed for the adsorption of organic pollutants from wastewater, offering a sustainable approach to water purification. A key publication in this area is:
- Barman, S.*; Bera, S. “A zero-waste one-step method to produce carboxy nanocellulose from untreated barley and wheat straws” Journal of Wood Chemistry and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1080/02773813.2024.2303038.
This paper introduces an eco-friendly method for producing carboxy nanocellulose from barley and wheat straws, demonstrating its effectiveness in wastewater treatment and supporting sustainable water management practices.
6.2. Water Consumption per Person
The university’s water management system tracks various sources and uses of water meticulously to ensure efficient and sustainable practices.
6.2.1 : Measure the total volume of water used in the university
The university utilized a total of 79,215 kilolitres (KL) of treated water. This treated water includes both water from the main supply and water that has undergone desalination processes. The treated water plays a crucial role in meeting the university’s daily water needs, including those for drinking, sanitation, and other essential services.
Extracted Water: In addition to the treated water, the university extracted an equivalent volume of 79,215 KL from Borewells 1 and 2. This water is sourced directly from underground reserves and is used for various campus needs. Borewell water is particularly significant for applications where treated water might not be necessary, such as in some aspects of landscaping and non-potable uses.
6.2.2 Total Water Usage:
When combining the volumes from all sources, the total water usage across the university amounted to 143,434 KL. This total includes both the water extracted from borewells and the water processed through the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). The STP-treated water is repurposed for horticultural activities and flushing systems, demonstrating the university’s commitment to recycling and resource efficiency. The detailed tracking and reporting of water consumption reflect the university’s ongoing efforts to manage its water resources responsibly and sustainably. This approach not only helps in monitoring usage but also in identifying opportunities for conservation and improvement in water management practices. Our Audit partners follow the National Building Code 2016 for all benchmarking.
Green Audit Report (Refer to pg. no. 25 – 39)
Graph: Water Consumption within the University
Graph: Actual v/s Theoretical Consumption Graph: Percentage of Water Usage
The details on all water-related measurements are provided in the Green Audit Report for 2022
Green Audit Report (Refer to pg. no. 25 – 39)
6.3 Water Usage and Care
6.3.1. Wastewater Treatment
The campus operates independently of municipal sewage systems. Instead, all wastewater from toilets, baths, and kitchens is treated onsite at our Sewage Treatment Plants (STP), which collectively have the capacity to process 700,000 litres of wastewater per day. This treated water is then repurposed for flushing and horticultural use. Additionally, wastewater from the centralized building Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems is collected and reused for flushing. We also maintain an underground storage tank with a capacity of 270,000 litres to hold treated STP water for reuse.
The campus features two STPs: one with a capacity of 200 kilolitres per day (KLD) and another with a capacity of 500 KLD, allowing for a combined treatment capacity of 700,000 litres per day during peak periods. These STPs are connected to dedicated sewage drain lines for each building, effectively preventing rainwater from entering the STP system. The 200 KLD STP utilizes a Fluidized Media Reactor (FMR) type, while the 500 KLD STP is an underground system based on standard practices. The sludge generated by the STPs is processed through a composting machine and repurposed as manure for gardening.
The university has implemented a sophisticated effluent treatment plant to manage laundry wastewater efficiently. The process begins with chemical coagulation using alum to form clumps of impurities. These clumps are then combined through flocculation and allowed to settle out during the settling phase, where solid waste is separated from the liquid.
Following these stages, the water is subjected to filtration to remove any remaining particles and ensure it meets high-quality standards. The treated water is then stored in a dedicated tank.
Pic: Water Treatment Flow Chart
This water is strategically repurposed for gardening and flushing throughout the campus, significantly reducing our reliance on fresh water. By reusing treated wastewater, we enhance our sustainability efforts and contribute to the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
6.3.2. Preventing Water System Pollution
The university has proactively addressed water system pollution through several key initiatives. Our commitment to a plastic-free campus plays a crucial role in minimizing plastic waste that could otherwise contaminate water sources. Additionally, our water undergoes rigorous filtration processes to meet safety standards for all uses. We have robust policies in place to ensure effective waste management and a clean, green campus. Links to these policies are provided below.
Our kitchen and gardening waste is efficiently managed through a composting machine that converts up to 250 kg of waste daily into manure for campus gardening. Similarly, sludge from our Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) is recycled into compost for use in gardening.
For hazardous waste, such as kitchen grease and lubricant oil from diesel generators, we rely on M/s Bharat Oil and Waste Management Ltd (BOWM) to handle disposal in compliance with government regulations. Last year, we successfully sent 660 liters of lubricant oil to BOWM for proper disposal. BOWM ensures that all hazardous materials are processed in an environmentally safe manner, minimizing any potential impact on the ecosystem. Our partnership with BOWM reinforces our commitment to responsible waste management and environmental protection.
Rainwater is collected and recharged into the ground through an extensive system of rainwater harvesting pits, ponds, and swales. The campus is equipped with 22 rainwater harvesting pits connected through stormwater drains that capture runoff from building rooftops, roads, pathways, and green areas. These pits collect and store rainwater, which is then used for irrigation and other non-potable purposes, thus reducing reliance on treated water and mitigating pollution. To ensure optimal water percolation into the ground, we conduct annual maintenance and cleaning of the rainwater harvesting systems.
Picture of Rainwater Harvesting Pits
Picture of Rainwater Harvesting Pits University Map
6.3.3. Free Drinking Water
Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is a top priority for the university. In recognition of the vital role that water plays in the health and well-being of the campus community, the university has invested in a comprehensive water purification infrastructure. This includes a sophisticated network of eight Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants strategically distributed across the campus. Each RO plant is engineered to handle a capacity of 600 litres per hour (LPH), providing a continuous and reliable stream of purified water. This advanced filtration technology effectively removes impurities, contaminants, and harmful substances, ensuring that the water supplied is of the highest quality and safe for consumption.
The placement of the eight RO plants has been strategically planned to provide optimal coverage across the campus, with units located in key areas such as academic buildings, dormitories, and common spaces. This ensures that students, staff, and visitors have easy access to clean drinking water, reducing the need for long walks and enhancing overall convenience. A dedicated team oversees the ongoing monitoring and prompt resolution of any issues, ensuring that the systems operate efficiently and reliably.
In its commitment to sustainability, the university has implemented water-conscious building standards across its campus. These standards are applied to both new construction projects and renovations of existing buildings. The goal is to enhance water efficiency and reduce consumption through design and construction practices that prioritize water conservation.
6.3.5: Water conscious Building Standards
Our policy on waste management, the environment, and green practices is designed to uphold rigorous standards that reflect our commitment to sustainable building construction. This policy not only guides our operational procedures but also ensures that every aspect of our construction practices aligns with our environmental values. For instance, point no. 6 of our environment and green policy explicitly mentions:
“New Build and Building Refurbishment: The university will ensure that whenever new construction or refurbishment, work is planned and executed in a manner which reflects environmentally responsible approaches defined by the National Building Code-2O16.”
Our policy on waste management talks about the green initiatives on campus like the Green Audit and the Green Master Plan:
“1.1. Green Audit: The university shall make arrangements to undertake a comprehensive green audit of the existing structures and work operations annually to identify, quantify, describe and prioritize the framework of environment sustainability in compliance with the applicable regulations, policies and standards. The objective of the green audit is to improve energy and water usage efficiency, better waste management and all-around management and development of the campus in an eco-friendly manner for a sustainable future. The green audit may consist of the following broad points:
- Water Audit – Water balance consisting of sources, consumption and recycling.
- Waste Audit – Inventorisation of municipal solid wastes, hazardous wastes, biomedical wastes and sources thereof, compostable fraction wastes, segregation of wastes, Present practice of waste management inside campus.
- Energy audit – Inventorisation of electrical fittings, fixtures, appliances, machines, etc, energy consumption, recognise energy wastage and leakage points.
- Biodiversity – green cover mapping, tree counting, biodiversity register.
1.2 Green Master Plan: Since there is a need to augment the infrastructure on the campus, it becomes critical to ensure that the master plan is in line with the environmental norms of GEM (ASSOCHAM/IGBO/GRIHA). The upcoming infrastructure and facilities, as well as the addition to the existing structure and facilities, should be developed with a focus on energy efficiency, minimizing waste generation, optimizing power consumption, water consumption, and other supplies.”
6.3.5. Water-Conscious Planting
Since its inception, the University has practised a residential system and provides hostel accommodation to all UG and PG students. The general campus facilities include academic support facilities, facilities for food and accommodation, and an exceptional ambience for physical and mental well-being. Approximately 84% of the University campus is a green area with approximately 12000 trees of various species.
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The university has completed a series of water-conscious planting initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable landscaping practices. These projects focus on selecting plant species and designing green spaces in ways that optimize water use and contribute to the campus’s ecological health. For instance, rooftop terrace gardening and strategically locating pons and swells. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the campus but also supports overall water conservation and environmental sustainability.
Our policy on waste management also explicitly mentions biodiversity within campus:
“1.7 Biodiversity, Plantation and Landscaping of Campus: Proper documentation of the flora and fauna at university premises should be done with the help of experts. Further plantation should be done in a planned manner in experts ‘advice to add both green cover and beauty to the campus. Landscaping of different sizes may be done at suitable open spaces with flowering plants, grass and accessories targeting towards the most beautiful green campuses in surrounding.”
Additionally, we have implemented a comprehensive plantation policy designed to promote water-conscious planting practices. This policy aims to integrate water efficiency into our planting strategies and minimise our environmental impact.
6.4 Water Reuse
6.4.1. Water Reuse Policy
The university is committed to implementing a comprehensive and sustainable water management plan designed to prevent water wastage and maximize the recycling and reuse of wastewater across our campus. This plan includes reducing potable water usage through rigorous monitoring, the installation of water-efficient fixtures, and the restriction of water use to essential needs, including irrigation. Our commitment extends to adopting sustainable horticulture practices, ensuring that all landscaping and gardening efforts are carried out in a water-efficient and environmentally responsible manner. By integrating these measures, the university aims to optimize water resource use, promote environmental sustainability, and set a benchmark for responsible water management on campus.
6.4.2. Water Reuse Measurement
In 2022, a total of 60,691 kilolitres (KL) of water was effectively reused on campus, sourced from our Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). This water is channelled through a dedicated pumping system specifically designed for its reuse in non-potable applications. The reclaimed water is utilized for flushing purposes within campus facilities and for irrigating garden areas. Our green audit and environment audit mentions of the efforts that we have put together in this regard.
Green Audit Report (Refer to pg. no. 25 – 39)
New Policy –
Policy on Water Management and its Reuse
6.5 Water in the Community
6.5.1: Water Management Educational Opportunities:
BMU is dedicated to cultivating ethical leaders who possess the skills, knowledge, and life skills essential for guiding their organizations to success. A key aspect of our mission is to raise awareness about human life and foster empathy among our students. This is accomplished through various educational and community outreach initiatives that promote water conservation and mindful water usage.
Curricular Integration: Our undergraduate and postgraduate programs incorporate mandatory, credit-based social-rural immersion activities. These include internships with NGOs focused on environmental conservation, particularly water-related issues. Through these projects, students engage with communities to address water scarcity, promote sustainable practices, and enhance local water management strategies.
Project Sankalp
At the postgraduate level, Project Sankalp is a key component of our curriculum. This Social Enterprise for Community Development initiative, in collaboration with Mrida Group, guides students in developing and implementing sustainable water solutions in underdeveloped villages. Students work on projects that address water availability, hygiene, and sanitation, aiming to create measurable improvements in these areas over two years. They also seek CSR funding to support these projects.
Community Engagement: Our extension activities include partnerships with national foundations and participation in initiatives such as the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan coordinated by IIT Delhi. These collaborations focus on addressing water conservation challenges in local communities.
Student Clubs and Volunteer Units: BMU’s student clubs, including the SAVERA Club and NSS and YRC units, actively engage in water conservation efforts. Activities include organizing awareness campaigns, conducting clean-up drives, and implementing water-saving practices in nearby villages. For instance, the SAVERA Club has led literacy campaigns emphasising water conservation’s importance, while the NSS and YRC units participate in national programs like “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” which includes water conservation as a key focus area.
Collaborative Projects: The university, in partnership with the Raman Kant Munjal Foundation (RKMF), engages in projects that promote water conservation, environmental protection, and community development. Initiatives such as Hamari Asha and Asha Tutorial include components focused on educating communities about sustainable water practices and improving access to clean water.
6.5.2. Off-campus Water Conservation Support
The University has a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GuruJal -An initiative by Abhipsa Foundation towards Water Management. GuruJal’s vision is to encourage social responsibility, sustainable development, lifestyle, and consumerism, protection of the environment, and inspiring and implementing solutions to the environmental crisis that Gurugram is facing. Our values distinguish us and guide our actions. The MoU offers extensive support for water conservation efforts, benefiting both institutions.
Faculty and students from BML Munjal University gain valuable experience in water quality monitoring, treatment, and conservation through hands-on internships and training programs. This includes specialized training in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies for water conservation and quality testing.
Participants also benefit from discounted access to workshops jointly organized by GuruJal and BML Munjal University. Technical support related to water quality testing and GIS is available for students involved in collaborative projects.
GuruJal’s team accesses BML Munjal University’s research facilities, and both institutions collaborate on technology upgradation programs and the supervision of water conservation projects. BML Munjal University provides exclusive training in IoT and GIS to GuruJal personnel. GuruJal supports the submission of project proposals to various funding bodies and assists with placement opportunities for BML Munjal University students in water conservation fields. Joint research and development projects related to water conservation are explored, with proposals submitted to funding agencies.
GuruJal also contributes guest lectures and shares best practices and research with BML Munjal University, fostering mutual collaboration and enhancing water conservation efforts.
6.5.3. Sustainable Water Extraction on-campus:
Our commitment to sustainable water management on campus is exemplified by our groundwater extraction practices. We operate two borewells designed to efficiently and responsibly meet our water needs while minimizing environmental impact. Details of the extracted water measurements are provided in our Green Audit Report.
Borewell 1: This borewell has a total extraction capacity of 12,847 kilolitres (KL). It serves various campus facilities and contributes to our efforts in maintaining a consistent and reliable water supply for essential uses.
Borewell 2: This borewell has a significantly larger extraction capacity, totalling 66,368 KL. It supports a broader range of activities and infrastructure, ensuring that our campus can handle higher demands while adhering to our sustainability goals.
Green Audit Report (Refer to pg. no. 25 – 39)
6.5.4. Cooperation on Water Security:
In 2022, our team spearheaded a comprehensive initiative focused on enhancing sanitation and water security in the adopted Gram Panchayat of Umrain, Alwar (Raj.). This project aimed to foster positive behavioural changes and improve environmental conditions within the village.
Activities and Programs:
- Swachhata Promotion Campaigns:
We organized a series of swachhata awareness campaigns designed to educate and engage villagers about the importance of sanitation. Door-to-door visits were conducted to personally address concerns and spread awareness about maintaining cleanliness.
- Educational and Community Engagement Events:
o School-Level Initiatives: We facilitated movie screenings and painting competitions in local schools to educate children on the importance of sanitation and inspire them to take active roles in their community’s cleanliness.
o Solid Waste Management: Hands-on activities included street and drain cleaning, solid waste collection drives, compost pit digging, and waste segregation exercises.
- Community Pledge and Behavioral Change:
o Following our interventions, a significant milestone was achieved as villagers committed to not disposing of garbage in the open and pledged to maintain a cleaner environment. This shift in behaviour contributed to a notable reduction in open defecation cases within the village.
6.5.5 Promoting Water-Conscious Usage on campus :
1.Event_Programme Report-BMU.docx
6.5.6. Promoting Water Conscious Usage in the Wider Community:
Addressing Garbage Management Issues:
- Panchayat Meeting Discussions:
o We addressed the issues of overflowing garbage bins and inadequate monitoring of waste disposal during a Gram Panchayat meeting. Our suggestions for improvements were well-received and appreciated by the Panchayat officials.
- Innovative Solution:
o To tackle the problem of garbage bin management, we utilized our engineering expertise to develop a Smart Garbage Bin prototype. This innovative bin is equipped with technology that automatically sends status updates about its fill level to a mobile device.
o The prototype received commendations from the Sarpanch and Block Development Officer (BDO). We subsequently presented the smart bin to the entire Panchayat Samiti Umrein, showcasing its potential to significantly improve waste management efficiency in the area.
Our efforts in Gram Panchayat Umrain not only promoted better sanitation practices but also introduced technological solutions to enhance waste management. The positive response from the community and local officials reflects the success of our initiative and its potential for broader application in similar settings.