The University of Rizal System (URS) integrates SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production across its instruction, research, extension, production, and operation initiatives. By promoting energy efficiency, sustainable waste management, responsible procurement, and innovative research, URS contributes to sustainable development. Furthermore, through its implemented programs, projects, and activities, it extends its advocacies to its surrounding community, fostering broader awareness and action on sustainability issues. This approach ensures that the university contributes to SDG 12 within its operations and empowers students, faculty, and communities to participate in the global movement toward more sustainable consumption and production practices.
URS developed organized protocols that appropriately govern the environmental activities of the university. Such recommendations include garbage management and disposal, public awareness creation, afforestation, smoking control policies, agriculture and food security, and preservation of energy and water resources per the national legislation. The university also encourages using recycled materials in its purchases, and students violating these rules will have to engage in community service.
Waste Management: URS generates reasonable amounts of organic, inorganic, and toxic waste; in total, 1,756.767 tons.
Organic Waste: It produces organic waste of 1,749.81 tons; composting and recycling enhance organic matter for horticulture and farming.
Inorganic Waste: Inorganic waste generated in URS amounts to 6.747 tons; major contributors include white paper (3.263 tons), paper, assorted (1.814 tons), carton boxes (0.681 tons), and plastic bottles (0.835 tons) with a minimal amount of metal cans (0.153 tons).
Toxic Waste: It produces 0.210 tons of harmful waste, which is disposed of and removed through identification and delivery to appropriate centers for processing and management.
The URS’s comprehensive approach to environmental management demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and its role as a partner to the community and local government in environmental stewardship. In its journey to the full implementation and support of the sustainable development goal of the world in 2030, the university will incorporate sustainability principles into its academic programs, ensuring that students from various disciplines will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to promote responsible consumption and production practices in their future careers. As URS fully supports the Ynares Eco System (YES) Program of the Province of Rizal, awareness programs and campaigns to educate the public on the importance of reducing waste, conserving resources, and adopting sustainable practices in daily life will be advocated to its stakeholders