Goal 06: Clean Water & Sanitation
Goal 06: Clean Water & Sanitation
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GreenInsight eMagazine [Issue III]
Sustainable Development Goal 6 Clean Water and Sanitation — reflects a vital global commitment to ensuring universal access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation. Clean water is a fundamental human right and a critical foundation for public health, well-being, and dignity.
At the University of Kelaniya, we recognize the urgency of addressing global water challenges, including water scarcity, pollution, and inadequate sanitation. Through our academic programs, green infrastructure, and community outreach, we are actively contributing to the advancement of SDG 6. Our efforts include sustainable water resource management, the protection of freshwater ecosystems, and the promotion of hygienic practices across campus and surrounding communities.
By striving toward the goals of SDG 6, UOK is helping to prevent waterborne diseases, improve sanitation standards, and support environmental sustainability all essential for building resilient communities and fostering sustainable development in Sri Lanka and beyond.
Monthly Water Usage Record - University of Kelaniya
Monthly Water Usage Record - University of Kelaniya
Compliance with National and International Frameworks
Compliance with National and International Frameworks
UoK ensures that all water management, treatment, and conservation practices strictly comply with national regulatory frameworks and international sustainability standards directly aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 6 – Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Compliance with National Frameworks
Compliance with National Frameworks
All institutional water-related initiatives—including water conservation, recycling, wastewater treatment, and pollution control are implemented in accordance with Sri Lanka’s environmental regulations and policy frameworks:
Central Environmental Authority (CEA)
National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB)
Green Building Council of Sri Lanka (GBCSL)
At the institutional level, the University of Kelaniya has established a comprehensive framework of internal policies and guidelines to operationalize its sustainability vision
Education
Education
Undergraduate Level
BSc / BSc (Honours) in Environmental Conservation & Management (ENCM)
This program equips students with scientific knowledge on water, ecosystems, and resource conservation.
Key course units:
ENCM 11554 – Introduction to Environmental Management
ENCM 12534 – Environmental Pollution & Waste Management
ENCM 21554 – Water Resource Management & Hydrology
ENCM 22554 – Wetland Ecology & Management
ENCM 31554 – Climate Change & Environmental Impact Assessment
ENCM 41554 – Research Project on Environmental Sustainability
BA / BA (Honours) in Geography
Focuses on human–environment interactions, water systems, and natural hazard mitigation.
Key course units:
GEOG 11512 – Physical Geography and Meteorology
GEOG 22512 – Hydrology and Water Resources
GEOG 32534 – Climate Change and Environmental Hazards
GEOG 33544 – Geography of Natural Disasters
MBBS – Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Includes modules on community health, sanitation, and prevention of waterborne diseases.
Key module:
PUBH 32412 – Environmental Health and Sanitation
Postgraduate Level
Postgraduate Level
MSc in Environmental Management / MSc in Environmental Conservation & Management
Sustainability Leadership Training Program (SLTP)
Sustainability Leadership Training Program (SLTP)
Conducted by the Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS), SLTP strengthens student engagement with SDG 6 through hands-on learning in:
Water conservation and wastewater recycling
Rainwater harvesting and water audits
Plastic pollution reduction and awareness campaigns
The program cultivates leadership for sustainable water and sanitation management across all faculties.
Promoting Conscious Water Usage on Campus
Promoting Conscious Water Usage on Campus
actively promotes conscious and responsible water usage across all its faculties through a combination of awareness, infrastructure, and policy-based initiatives. The Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) and faculty-level Green Practices Committees (GPCs) lead regular campaigns, workshops, and student projects to encourage sustainable water behavior among staff and students.
Awareness boards and digital displays placed near washrooms, canteens, and laboratories remind users to minimize wastage and report leaks. The Sustainability Leadership Training Program (SLTP) includes practical sessions on water audits, rainwater harvesting, and responsible consumption.
Water Efficient Appliances at the Main University Premises
Water Efficient Appliances at the Main University Premises
To address water waste in washroom facilities, the university has installed low-flow toilets, urinals, and push-tap washbasins in most public and staff restrooms throughout the main academic buildings. Additionally, sensor-operated handwashing taps have been introduced in selected high-traffic areas such as lecture halls and administrative blocks.
These sanitary fixtures:
Automatically control the duration of water flow, eliminating unnecessary waste.
Are easy to maintain and durable for daily use by large student and staff populations.
Contribute to a significant reduction in water usage per person per day in university buildings.
Water Efficiency Initiatives at the Faculty of Medicine (FOM)
Water Efficiency Initiatives at the Faculty of Medicine (FOM)
The Faculty of Medicine (FOM) at the University of Kelaniya has implemented a multi-pronged strategy to conserve water, minimize wastage, and promote sustainable practices across its academic, residential, and operational zones. These measures align with the university’s overarching commitment to environmental stewardship and efficient resource use.
1. Installation of Water-Saving Fixtures
FOM has equipped all restrooms, laboratories, and pantry areas with:
Dual-flush toilets
Low-flow faucets
Aerated taps
These water-saving fixtures maintain functionality and hygiene while significantly reducing daily water consumption, especially in high-use areas such as hospital-linked buildings and lecture halls.
2. Scheduled Maintenance and Leak Audits
A dedicated technical team at FOM carries out:
Routine plumbing inspections
Rapid repair of leaking taps, faulty valves, and dripping pipes
3. Water-Conscious Behavior and Awareness Campaigns
Posters and signage in washrooms and labs remind users to turn off taps after use.
Green Society activities and student-led awareness sessions promote responsible water habits.
The faculty encourages behavioral change through regular workshops and visual cues
4. Smart Irrigation and Compost Use
To reduce water used for landscaping:
Soil moisture monitoring and manual irrigation scheduling are applied.
Compost from the faculty’s biogas and organic waste units is added to green areas, enhancing moisture retention and reducing irrigation frequency.
Key gardens benefiting include:
The vegetable garden
The banana garden
The fruit garden
5. Water-Efficient Dishwashing in the Canteen
The faculty canteen has adopted automated dishwashing machines that:
Use less water per cycle than manual washing
Maintain high hygiene standards
Improve kitchen workflow and efficiency
6. Efficient Laundry Operations
For institutional textiles such as uniforms and linen, the faculty uses water-efficient washing machines with:
Low water consumption ratings
Short cycle durations
Improved cleaning efficiency
8. Air Conditioner (AC) Condensate Water Use
FOM utilizes condensate from air conditioning units by:
Directing the water into plant pots
Supporting indoor and outdoor plants with otherwise wasted water
9. Sensor-Based Tap
While FOM emphasizes water-saving behaviors, sensor-based taps have not yet been implemented due to energy considerations. However, the university continues to explore suitable models as technology evolves.
Water Efficiency Initiatives at the Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT)
Water Efficiency Initiatives at the Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT)
The Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT) at the University of Kelaniya has adopted a comprehensive suite of smart infrastructure solutions and practical conservation strategies aimed at reducing water wastage across its premises. These interventions reflect a strong commitment to resource efficiency, environmental responsibility, and long-term sustainability in the faculty’s daily operations, building design, and community engagement.
1. Use of Dual-Flush Toilet Systems
All restrooms in the FCT building are equipped with dual-flush cisterns, allowing users to select between low-volume and full-volume flushing. These systems use approximately:
3–4 liters for liquid waste
6 liters for solid waste
This targeted usage approach significantly reduces the volume of potable water used in sanitation. The traditional single-flush systems that consume up to 11 liters per use have been entirely replaced.
Furthermore, the rainwater harvesting system has been integrated into toilet flushing systems in both administrative and academic buildings, reducing the demand on municipal water supplies.
2. Low-Flow and Aerated Taps
To minimize daily water use, all washrooms, laboratory sinks, and kitchenettes are fitted with aerator-equipped faucets that:
Mix air with water to reduce flow rate without compromising pressure
Achieve water savings of up to 50%
Minimize splash and maintain clean sink areas
These fittings are corrosion-resistant and built for long-term efficiency with minimal maintenance needs.
3. Sensor-Based Urinal Flushing
In high-traffic male restrooms, sensor-activated urinal flushing systems have been installed. These systems:
Detect user presence and release water only when necessary
Prevent continuous or unattended flushing
Enhance hygiene by minimizing physical contact
4. Air Conditioner (AC) Water Reuse
Potable water (NWS&DB supplied) for the building air-conditioning requirement is reduced by introducing VRV and split units as alternatives to water-cooled chillers. 90% of the building uses a VRF system, which eliminates the need for make-up water. Less than 10% of the air conditioning requirement is met with high efficiency water-cooled chillers. Therefore, 90% of the potable water requirement for cooling tower make-up in the water-cooled chillers is eliminated.
The integration of an AC condensate drains water system for irrigating vertical greening is a practical and sustainable solution. It exemplifies how waste products can be repurposed to enhance environmental sustainability within built environments, contributing to greener and more efficient buildings.
5. Rainwater Harvesting for Non-Potable Use
FCT features a rooftop rainwater harvesting system, where:
Rainwater is collected, filtered, and stored in underground tanks
Water is reused for landscape irrigation, floor cleaning, and toilet flushing
Overflow is safely channeled into storm drains, minimizing runoff
6. Efficient Irrigation through Drip and Sprinkler Systems
To reduce water used for landscape maintenance:
Drip irrigation systems are used in planted beds and green areas
Sprinkler systems cover wider zones efficiently
Both systems minimize evaporation and surface runoff
7. Flow Regulation and Monitoring
Water flow rates in the academic building are routinely assessed and calibrated using pressure meters to ensure optimal performance and avoid excessive discharge. This engineering-based control ensures that all fixtures operate within defined efficiency parameters.
8. User Engagement and Awareness
Awareness campaigns are actively promoted through:
Posters and signage in washrooms and laboratories
Faculty-wide workshops and interactive sessions
Student involvement in monitoring and reporting
Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Rainwater Harvesting at the main university premises
Rainwater Harvesting at the main university premises
As part of the university's strategic commitment to sustainable water management, the Phase I of the Rainwater Harvesting Project was initiated in 2015.
According to the official document issued by the Works Department of the University of Kelaniya, the contract for constructing the rainwater harvesting system was awarded to Suhada Builders on 28th July 2015, with a two-month timeline for completion.
The project was completed within the stipulated period, demonstrating timely execution aligned with university sustainability goals.
Rainwater Harvesting at the Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT)
Rainwater Harvesting at the Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT)
As part of its green infrastructure, the FCT building features a fully functional rainwater harvesting system, which plays a dual role in storm water management and water conservation. Rainwater collected from rooftops is diverted into first-flush diverters to remove initial contaminants, after which it is stored in tanks. This harvested water is then reused for landscape irrigation, floor washing, and non-potable utility purposes, thereby reducing dependency on municipal water while lowering runoff volume during heavy rainfall. The system is designed to handle moderate to high rainfall events, and its overflow is directed into legally approved storm water outlets.
The rainwater harvesting setup not only contributes to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) but also meets the criteria under the GreenSL® Rating System. The faculty has also proposed to expand this system as part of its Environmental Responsibility (ER) initiatives in partnership with the university’s CSS unit and CEA proposals.
Rainwater Harvesting at the Faculty of Medicine (FOM)
Rainwater Harvesting at the Faculty of Medicine (FOM)
As part of its commitment to sustainable water management, FOM has implemented a rainwater collection tank specifically designed for groundwater recharge. This system plays a critical role in restoring aquifer levels and reducing surface runoff during heavy rainfall.
Key Features:
Collection Source: Rainwater is harvested from rooftop and paved surface runoff.
Filtration & Pre-Treatment: Water is first filtered to remove debris and suspended solids through a primary silt trap and gravel filter bed.
Recharge Design: The filtered water is then directed into an infiltration tank constructed with permeable layers (gravel and sand) to ensure gradual percolation into the subsoil.
Overflow Management: Excess water from heavy rains is channeled through overflow pipes into approved stormwater outlets, preventing flooding.
Sprinkler & Drip Irrigation Systems
Sprinkler & Drip Irrigation Systems
The University of Kelaniya has adopted sustainable and water-efficient landscaping practices across all its major campuses, incorporating sprinkler and drip irrigation systems to reduce water wastage and enhance green space management.
These systems are designed not only to conserve water but also to support biodiversity, reduce runoff, and align with national and international sustainability frameworks.
🟩 Main University Premises
At the Landscape Division of the main campus, a sprinkler irrigation system was installed on January 5, 2018, at the plant nursery. The system replaced traditional manual watering methods, ensuring more consistent and efficient irrigation.
Key Features:
Mimics natural rainfall patterns
Adjustable flow rate for different plant types
Supports ornamental and native plant species
Reduces water wastage and operational labor
This system is used primarily for maintaining a wide range of vegetation including flowering plants, herbs, and saplings maintained for university greening initiatives.
🟩 Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT)
The FCT uses an advanced drip irrigation system supported by treated wastewater from its own on-site Sewage Treatment Plant (STP).
Key Features:
Treated water is reused for landscape irrigation
Drip lines deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing evaporation
Reduces the use of potable water in gardening
Drought-tolerant plants (e.g., Karanda, Mee) reduce irrigation demand
Water Reuse Measurement
Water Reuse Measurement
UOK systematically measures and monitors water reuse across its main campus and affiliated faculties through a combination of treatment plant data logs, flow-meter readings, and monthly consumption reports.
Wastewater Treatment Systems
Wastewater Treatment Systems
The University of Kelaniya has implemented decentralized and eco-efficient wastewater treatment systems across multiple campuses to ensure water reuse, ecosystem protection, and compliance with environmental regulations.
🏫 Main University Premises– Girls’ Hostel Premises
A compact, energy-efficient wastewater treatment plant is installed within the Girls’ Hostel premises of the main university campus.
Key Features:
Location: Residential student hostel zone
Treats greywater and domestic wastewater
Output water is reused for gardening and landscape irrigation
Reduces the university’s burden on the municipal drainage system
🖥 Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT)
FCT, all wastewater generated within the premises is systematically treated before being discharged into the environment. This process ensures compliance with national environmental regulations and aligns with the university’s green campus initiatives under the GreenSL® Rating System and its commitment to sustainability.
Water used within FCT is primarily sourced from the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB), which ensures high-quality water for academic, staff, and student use. Additionally, treated groundwater wells serve other areas of the university, such as hostels, in supporting the institution’s water requirements.
Wastewater generated at FCT from washrooms, laboratories, and other utility areas is directed to a dedicated on-site wastewater treatment plant established specifically for the faculty. This plant operates using filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection processes to treat the wastewater and bring it to environmentally safe standards before release.
Importantly, FCT adopts a sustainable reuse approach. A portion of the treated wastewater is repurposed for landscaping and garden irrigation within the faculty premises. This practice not only minimizes the consumption of fresh water but also supports the maintenance of green zones, contributing to the faculty’s environmental aesthetics and cooling effect.
By releasing wastewater only after proper treatment and promoting its reuse, FCT, UOK demonstrates a strong commitment to water conservation, pollution prevention, and environmental stewardship. These measures align with the faculty’s green infrastructure goals and reinforce its leadership in sustainable academic facility management.
FCT follows a systematic and environmentally compliant approach to treating and disposing of sewage. This process is integral to the faculty’s broader green building strategy and environmental management system.
1. On-site sewage treatment plant (STP)
FCT is equipped with a dedicated on-site Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) that is designed to handle all blackwater and greywater generated from the faculty's restrooms, laboratories, and utility areas. This facility ensures that no raw sewage is discharged directly into the environment.
STP employs standard biological and mechanical treatment processes, including:
Primary treatment: sedimentation to remove solids
Secondary (biological) treatment: aerobic digestion to break down organic matter
Tertiary treatment: disinfection and filtration to ensure environmental safety
This multi-stage treatment process brings effluent quality in line with national wastewater discharge standards, reducing environmental and public health risks.
2. Safe disposal and reuse of treated effluent
After treatment, the effluent water is either safely discharged into designated soakage areas or reused for landscape irrigation within the FCT premises. This reuse strategy:
Reduces the need for freshwater
Supports campus greenery
Minimizes environmental discharge volumes
Sludge separated during the treatment process is managed in compliance with waste handling protocols and is safely removed through authorized contractors, ensuring responsible disposal off-site.
3. Routine monitoring and maintenance
The STP is operated and maintained by trained personnel under the oversight of the faculty’s facilities and environmental units. Regular maintenance schedules, inspections, and performance assessments ensure the system operates efficiently and meets compliance standards set by environmental authorities.
In case of faults or overloads, FCT coordinates with university-level maintenance and technical support teams to take corrective actions immediately, minimizing downtime or risk.
🏥 Faculty of Medicine (FOM) – Ragama
The Faculty of Medicine operates multiple wastewater treatment systems that support both environmental and public health objectives.
A. Girls’ Hostel – Underground Eco-Friendly System
Passive filtration using sand, gravel, and charcoal
Functions without electrical input
Treated water supports surrounding biodiversity and vegetated areas
B. Ayati Centre – Faculty of Medicine
Dedicated wastewater treatment system integrated into pediatric and rehabilitation facility
Ensures treated water does not disrupt sensitive healthcare operations
Water reused for landscape maintenance and natural ecosystem support
Storm Water Management System
Storm Water Management System
🖥 Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT)
Effective storm water management is a key component of the sustainable infrastructure at the Faculty of Computing and Technology. The system is designed in accordance with national regulations, particularly the guidelines of the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka and the Urban Development Authority, ensuring legal compliance, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
The FCT building utilizes a legally accepted storm water discharge method in full compliance with local authority regulations and GBCSL green building criteria. The rainwater collected from the rooftop and paved surfaces is channeled through a network of properly sized storm water downpipes and drains connected to university-managed storm water outflow systems. The collected water is directed to percolation zones and soak pits within the premises, which facilitate natural groundwater recharge, minimizing runoff and urban flooding. In heavy rainfall scenarios, overflow systems ensure that excess water is discharged into Mudun Ela, which is legally approved and monitored.
The FCT includes a series of well-maintained storm water drainage canals and open surface drains that surround the building and its landscaping areas. These canals are structurally sound, free from cracks, blockages, or erosion, and have been built with an appropriate slope that ensures smooth water flow without stagnation. Regular inspections are carried out to prevent silt deposition, plant overgrowth, or debris accumulation, thus maintaining uninterrupted flow during rainy seasons. These canals also include grating systems and filters at inlets to prevent clogging and contamination of nearby surface water bodies.
FCT is equipped with an integrated system of galvanized metal and PVC gutters and vertical downpipes fixed along the rooftop perimeter. These downpipes are designed to handle the peak rainfall intensity of the region and are free from corrosion, leakage, and blockages. All gutters are securely attached and sloped appropriately to channel rainwater efficiently toward ground-level drainage or harvesting systems. Leaf guards and mesh filters are installed at entry points to reduce debris intake. Maintenance checks are conducted especially prior to monsoons to ensure operational efficiency, reflecting the faculty’s proactive approach to infrastructure upkeep.
🏥 Faculty of Medicine (FOM) – Ragama
The FOM has implemented a practical and environmentally responsible storm water management system that integrates both structural and natural solutions to reduce runoff, prevent erosion, and recharge groundwater.
I. Rooftop and surface drainage:
Rainwater from rooftops and paved areas is directed through a series of gutters and downpipes into designated soakage pits and surface drains. These systems are structurally maintained and regularly inspected to prevent blockages, erosion, or sedimentation. The infrastructure is designed to ensure smooth water flow and effective rainwater channeling, especially during the monsoon season.
II. Legally approved discharge:
All stormwater discharges from the FOM premises are routed through university-managed drainage systems that comply with national regulations, minimizing the risk of waterlogging or urban flooding.
III. Groundwater source development
The FOM has initiated the construction of a groundwater well within the campus premises to strengthen water self-sufficiency and support sustainable landscaping and sanitation needs. This project is being carried out in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Navy, who are providing both technical and labor support.
According to the planning documents and sketches, the selected site ensures safe and adequate groundwater recharge, with surrounding areas designed for storm water diversion and natural infiltration. The well will be used primarily to supplement irrigation of the faculty’s green areas including the vegetable yard, banana yard, and landscaped gardens especially during extended dry seasons. The faculty expects to implement this project by 2027.
Introduction of Water Saving Strategies to University Hostels
Introduction of Water Saving Strategies to University Hostels
Per capita water consumption and water usage pattern of of students who received accommodation facilities in the Yakkaduwe Pannarama Boys Hostel (YPBH) was studied in the year 2017. The water usage by 320 students within a year was 14014 m3 and the student’s per capita consumption of water was 43.8 m3. More than 65% of water was used during bathing while 28% was used in washing purposes. Introduction of basins to wash linen, repairing of leaky taps, installation of water flow rate control devices, harvesting of rain water, reuse of water treated in the sewage treatment plant for gardening purposes and conducting awareness programmes on water conservation for students were suggested as the strategies to reduce water wastage in the University hostels. CSS expects to implement these suggested strategies to reduce water wastage in the university hostels in 2018.
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