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Improving water efficiency in 鶹ýƵվ buildings

鶹ýƵվ is reducing the amount of water consumed during the construction and operation of its buildings.

SDG Case study G6.3 WaterMClayton

7 October 2020

Between 250 and 300 buildingsare operated by 鶹ýƵվacross its campuses,andthe universityis undertaking an ongoingprogramme of construction and refurbishment to improve its estate.

“This provides the opportunity to consider how we can reduce water consumption, both during the building work and in their future operation,” says Ben Stubbs (Sustainable 鶹ýƵվ).

Allbuilding projectsthat have an impact on water useimplement measurestomonitor and reducepotable water consumption during both construction and operational phases.

鶹ýƵվ’s standard target for new buildings is a 40% reduction in water consumption comparedto the standard industry baseline, asdefined byBREEAM,theenvironmentalassessmentmethod for buildings.

Toachieve this,the universityidentifiesthe potential for water efficiency improvementsin allprojectsthatinvolvethe provision, upgrade or replacement offacilities or fittings usingthe mainswatersupply.

New developmentstypically achievethisthrough specifyingefficient sanitaryfittings, as well as monitoringongoing water usage.For example,the 鶹ýƵվ Student Centre useslow-flushtoiletsand water-efficient shower facilities,contributingto a projected55% reduction in water consumption.

Where practical,鶹ýƵվ’sbuildings alsoreduce thepotable watersupply withrainwater harvesting and greywater recycling.

Contractors arealsoexpected to set water consumption targets duringconstructionorrefurbishment projectsand thentomonitorandreportonthe results.

“We also require allbuildingprojects todemonstrate how they have minimisedany potential water pollutionor floodingthrough the use of sustainable drainage measures,” explains Ben.

“The new Student Centre is among 鶹ýƵվ buildings with a green roof and the new Astor College studentresidence has ablue roof. These both regulate rainwaterrunoff from the site, reducing the impact on local drainage systems.”