4.2.1 Introduction
In line with the institution’s sustainability initiatives and efforts to promote efficient water management, Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (PSA) has developed a Rainwater Harvesting System (SPAH). Implemented in 2024, this system aims to collect and reuse rainwater as an alternative water source for non-potable purposes. The project supports PSA’s commitment to environmental conservation, resource efficiency, and the reduction of treated water consumption on campus. Figure 1 shows the location of the Rainwater Harvesting System at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (PSA).
Figure 1: Rainwater Harvesting System located at Department of Civil Engineering and Department of Mechanical Engineering.
The main objectives of the Rainwater Harvesting System (SPAH) are as follows:
To reduce dependence on treated water from the main supply by utilizing collected rainwater for daily campus activities.
To promote sustainable water management practices and raise awareness of water conservation among staff and students.
To minimize water wastage by reusing rainwater for cleaning, landscaping, and practical workshop activities.
To support PSA’s sustainability goals in alignment with the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking criteria.
4.2.3 Flow chart water recycling usage activity from rain water harvesting.
The SPAH system has been installed with two storage tanks located at the Department of Civil Engineering and one storage tank at the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
The system collects rainwater from roof catchment areas, channels it into the storage tanks, and redistributes it for the following activities:
Watering landscape vegetation and ornamental plants
Cleaning nearby toilets
Mopping floors in surrounding areas
Cleaning laboratory equipment
Supporting brick workshop practical sessions and other related activities
The storage tanks at the Department of Civil Engineering have a total capacity of 600 liters, while the tank at the Department of Mechanical Engineering has a capacity of 200 liters. The collected rainwater is filtered and stored for reuse, ensuring efficient and safe application for non-potable purposes.
Activity 1: Watering plants and landscape vegetation
Activity 2: Cleaning nearby toilets
Activity 3: Mopping floors in surrounding areas
Activity 4: Cleaning laboratory equipment
Activity 5: Preparation for brick workshop practical sessions
4.2.6 Conclusion
The Rainwater Harvesting System (SPAH) at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (PSA) signifies a major advancement toward building a sustainable and environmentally conscious campus.
By collecting and reusing rainwater for non-potable applications, PSA has successfully reduced its reliance on treated water, lowered operational water costs, and demonstrated leadership in sustainable campus management.
This initiative highlights PSA’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, efficient resource utilization, and sustainable development in accordance with global best practices.