4.3 Water  efficient appliances usage

[4.3] Water Efficient Appliance Usage (WR.3)

Introduction

Water-efficient appliance usage refers to the practice of utilizing appliances and systems specifically designed to optimize water consumption by minimizing wastage without compromising functionality or performance. In line with Malaysia’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable resource management, Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (PSA) has implemented the Water Efficient Appliance Usage Program as part of its Smart Green Campus Initiative.

Water is a vital natural resource that must be managed wisely. However, excessive and inefficient water usage is commonly observed in educational institutions, particularly in washrooms, sinks, and ablution (wuduk) areas. Through this program, PSA aims to reduce water wastage by introducing and promoting the use of water-efficient technologies such as Rainwater Harvesting Systems (RWH) and improved wuduk facilities, thereby fostering a culture of sustainability within the campus community.

Objectives

The objectives of the Water Efficient Appliance Usage are as follows:

1.       To implement water-saving technologies within campus facilities.

2.       To reduce overall water consumption at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah

3.       To support PSA’s vision of becoming a green and sustainable educational institution.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems (SPAH) - Water Efficient Appliance  at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah 

Description:

At Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (PSA), a comprehensive rainwater harvesting system has been implemented to support sustainable water resource management on campus. Rainwater from the rooftops of academic blocks and workshops is collected via an integrated network of gutters and downpipes, then stored in dedicated storage tanks. — two units with capacities of 200 liters and 400 liters at the Department of Civil Engineering, and one 200-liter unit at the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

At PSA, harvested rainwater is used for non-potable applications such as landscaping, toilet flushing, and general cleaning. A dedicated drainage system separates wastewater from stormwater, directing roof and surface runoff into recharge pits and reservoirs to replenish groundwater and reduce surface runoff.

Planning Status:

The rainwater harvesting system will be extended to cover every building block and hostel within the campus in the future.

Implementation Status:

Two units with capacities of 200 liters and 400 liters at the Department of Civil Engineering, and one 200-liter unit at the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Future Initiative:

Replacement of existing taps and flush systems with low-flow, dual-flush, and sensor-based devices to enhance water efficiency across campus facilities.

Conclusion:

The practice of water-efficient appliance usage represents a strategic approach to sustainable water resource management. It not only minimizes wastage but also delivers significant economic, social, and environmental value. Comprehensive implementation within an organization strengthens resilience against potential water shortages in the future.