SUSTAINABILITY AT PERADENIYA

OUR FOOTPRINT

Energy

Annual Electricity Usage

On average, over the last seven years, the University of Peradeniya has used 5,957 MWh of electricity, which is equivalent to the electricity used by 20,000 Sri Lankan households. Approximately 64% of the electricity consumed by the University is obtained from the main grid, while the remaining 36% of the electricity requirement is obtained from on-site solar panels.

Electricity is mainly used for:

indoor & outdoor lighting
cooling & ventilating building
powering equipment
cooking

Total Electricity Generation in Sri Lanka by Source for Year 2022

According to the Ministry of Power and Energy in Sri Lanka, 44% of the country's electricity generation is derived from renewable energy sources, including hydro, solar, wind, etc. (MoPE Progress report 2022 ).

Fossil Fuel

Annual Fuel Usage

At the University of Peradeniya, fossil fuels are primarily used to operate a fleet of 157 vehicles, including cars, jeeps, cabs, buses, three-wheelers, motorcycles, tractors, garbage trucks, lorries, ambulances, and more. Additionally, fuel is used to power landscape equipment and emergency generators. In 2021, the university consumed 75,207 liters of diesel and 37,603 liters of petrol for these purposes. However, in 2022, the university's fossil fuel consumption decreased significantly to 41,461 liters of diesel and 21,123 liters of petrol. This reduction was mainly due to the fuel shortages experienced in Sri Lanka during that year.

Water

Annual Water Usage

On average, over the last five years, the University of Peradeniya has used 1,697,622 cubic meters of water. More than 95% of the university's water requirements are met by the water treatment facility located near the university. This facility is operated by the Water Supply and Drainage Board of Sri Lanka, and the university purchases treated water from it. The treated water is then distributed throughout the campus and is of drinking quality. A small percentage of the water is sourced from tube wells and collected from a few seasonal streamlets.

Purchased water is mainly used for:

Washrooms, toilets & kitchens in halls of residences
Washrooms & toilets of classroom buildings
Teaching and research laboratories
Washrooms & toilets of administrative buildings
Canteens
Washrooms, toilets & kitchens in staff housing
Agricultural fields
Animal farms

Waste

Solid and Chemical Waste

In 2022, the University of Peradeniya observed a significant reduction of approximately 30-40% in waste production compared to the pre-COVID period. This reduction was triggered by multiple factors, including the introduction of the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) concept in waste management, the economic crisis, and the closure of the University due to the fuel crisis. In 2024, the University managed its waste responsibly across various categories. A substantial 167,560 kg of food waste found a second life as animal feed on an animal farm, accounting for 100% of the food waste generated. Paper waste, totaling 58,000 kg, was efficiently managed by selling it to registered recyclers or forwarding it for recycling at the Valaichchenai Paper Mill. As for PET waste, 100% was sent for recycling or recycled through sales to registered recyclers. The remaining 60,000 kg non-recyclable plastics were properly Incinerated using the incinerator facility located within the campus. The University also collected 4,300 kg of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and 48,000 kg of glass bottles, which were entirely sold to registered recyclers for responsible recycling. The clinical waste, totaling 6,300 kg, was incinerated.

Transportation

Modes of Transportation

A transportation survey conducted in University of Peradeniya in 2023 found that the most popular mode of transportation for staff and students at the University of Peradeniya is public transport, used by 40% of respondents. This is followed by walking (20%), shuttle and staff service (7%), bicycle (5%), motorbike and three wheeler (14%), and cars (15%). The findings of the survey suggest that the University of Peradeniya is committed to providing sustainable transportation options for its staff and students. The high use of public transport is a positive step, and the shuttle and staff service are also a valuable resource. However, the university could do more to promote the use of bicycles and motorbikes, as these are more environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

Carbon Footprint

From 2021 to 2023, the University of Peradeniya experienced a consistent increase in its carbon footprint, primarily driven by Scope 2 emissions (indirect emissions from purchased energy). Scope 2 emissions rose from 4,064 tCO₂e in 2021 to 5,238 tCO₂e in 2023, indicating a steady growth in energy consumption. However, in 2024, a significant decrease in Scope 2 emissions was observed following the installation of a 1,500 kWp photovoltaic system.

In contrast, Scope 1 emissions (direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by the university) fluctuated, increasing slightly from 333 tCO₂e in 2021 to 338 tCO₂e in 2023. In 2024, however, Scope 1 emissions rose sharply to 548 tCO₂e. Despite this increase, the university’s total carbon footprint decreased from 5,576 tCO₂e in 2023 to 3,760 tCO₂e in 2024.

Buildings

Green Building Concepts in Architecture

The University of Peradeniya boasts a rich architectural heritage that blends modernity with historical significance. Its buildings are a testament to the university's prestigious history, with iconic structures like the Senate Building and the majestic administrative complex showcasing a unique blend of colonial and indigenous architectural styles. These historic buildings, set against the backdrop of lush greenery and scenic landscapes, create an inspiring and tranquil environment for both students and faculty. The total building ground are of University of Peradeniya is 324,309 m2 and total land area of the University is 7,644,512 m2, ensuring that 95% of the land area is open space.

Some of the recommended smart building features are incorporated into all the buildings of the Campus. Most of the buildings in the University are very old buildings built 60 to 75 years back with allowance for natural ventilation and lighting. They are inherently smarter in energy saving and as a result, minimizing environmental impacts. Since the university has ample space for buildings, almost all the buildings are made with courtyards and there is a natural breeze coming from the nearby river, Mahaweli River, to the area where the buildings are situated.

General climate of Peradeniya environment is mild and a thermal condition (71°F to 84°F) favorable for human comfort exists all day long. Thus any heating or cooling facilities are not required in many Campus buildings. Automated processes to automatically control the building’s operations including heating, ventilation, air conditioning and lighting have not been necessary for these spaces.

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