UN SDG | JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research| SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation

Comprehensive Wastewater Treatment and Policy Implementation

JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER) has implemented an advanced and sustainable wastewater treatment process that aligns with its commitment to environmental stewardship and global sustainability goals, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). The institution has established robust infrastructure and policy frameworks to ensure efficient wastewater management, meeting both local and global environmental standards.

Policy Framework for Wastewater Management

JSS AHER operates under a comprehensive Policy for Water and Wastewater Management, which outlines the guidelines for collection, treatment, reuse, and disposal of wastewater. This policy ensures compliance with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) regulations and integrates best practices for sustainability and environmental conservation.

Policy guidelines document: PDF to be uploaded

Comprehensive Wastewater Management

Wastewater Treatment Process

Reuse of RO Rejected Water

Advanced Wastewater Treatment

Key Outcomes and Benefits

Community and Educational Initiatives

Conclusion

Wastewater Treatment Process at JSS AHER

JSS AHER employs a versatile wastewater treatment approach using state-of-the-art technologies, ensuring the treatment and reuse of wastewater from various sources, including laboratories, washrooms, kitchens, and clinical facilities.

Sewage and Kitchen Wastewater Treatment with SWR Technology

Infrastructure:
- The Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) has a capacity of 25,000 liters per day (KLD) and employs Submerged Aerobic Fixed Film (SWR) technology, recognized for its efficiency in treating sewage and kitchen wastewater.
Process:
- The SWR technology utilizes biological processes to break down organic matter in wastewater, ensuring treated water meets stringent quality standards.
- The treated water is reused for non-potable purposes, such as gardening and landscaping, around the Postgraduate Guest Hostel.
Impact:
- Conserves freshwater resources by reducing demand for potable water.
- Promotes eco-friendly practices by utilizing treated water effectively.

Reuse of RO Rejected Water

JSS AHER implements sustainable practices by reusing Reverse Osmosis (RO) rejected water for eco-friendly applications like gardening and landscaping.

Infrastructure:
- A 10,000-liter capacity tank has been installed to store and reuse wastewater generated from Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems.
Process:
- RO rejected water, often considered waste, is repurposed for gardening and landscaping around the campus.
Impact:
- Reduces wastewater generation.
- Demonstrates responsible water management by utilizing RO rejected water for sustainable practices.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment for Laboratories and Clinical Facilities

JSS AHER employs cutting-edge wastewater treatment technologies to ensure safe reuse of water from laboratories and clinical facilities, aligning with sustainable practices.

Disinfection Units:
- Infected wastewater from laboratories and clinical practices is treated at the source using approved disinfection units, ensuring the elimination of pathogens.
Main Treatment Plant:
- Treated wastewater is then channeled to the main STP, where advanced technologies such as Activated Sludge Processes, Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF), Anaerobic Reactors with Bio-Towers (ARBiT), and Membrane Filtration are employed to achieve high-quality standards for reuse.
Applications:
- Recycled water is used for gardening, landscaping, sports ground preparation, and construction activities.

Wastewater disinfection unit at JSS AHER, Mysuru

Key Outcomes and Benefits

Environmental Sustainability

Comprehensive wastewater treatment reduces the university’s reliance on external water sources and conserves freshwater resources.
Treated wastewater is effectively reused for non-potable applications, minimizing waste and contributing to sustainability.

Compliance with Regulatory Standards

Adherence to local pollution control guidelines ensures safe treatment and reuse of wastewater.

Reduction in Environmental Footprint

Implementation of advanced technologies minimizes the university’s water consumption and promotes eco-friendly practices.

Community and Educational Initiatives

Awareness and Training

Regular guest lectures and panel discussions, such as the Environmental Sanitation and Safety lecture by Dr. Sunitha Singh and the Global Handwashing Day event with UNICEF and SIRD, emphasize the importance of wastewater management and hygiene practices.

Student Engagement

Hands-on training in wastewater treatment and environmental health is integrated into undergraduate and postgraduate curricula to educate future leaders in sustainable water management.

Research and Development

Ongoing studies, such as the ICMR-funded project on water quality and health, further the understanding of water resource management and contribute to policy development.

Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Wastewater Management

JSS AHER exemplifies a comprehensive approach to wastewater management through its advanced treatment processes, policy framework, and commitment to sustainability. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, policy guidelines, and educational initiatives, the university ensures efficient wastewater treatment and reuse while minimizing its environmental footprint.

These efforts position JSS AHER as a leader in responsible water resource management, demonstrating its dedication to environmental sustainability and compliance with national and global standards.