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Building Standards and Policies for Minimizing Water Use

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Building Standards and Policies for Minimizing Water Use

JJSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER) demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability and water conservation through the implementation of advanced building standards and water-efficient practices. The institution adheres to globally recognized certifications and local guidelines to ensure optimal water usage across its campuses. These efforts are supported by comprehensive policies that emphasize eco-conscious construction and resource management, making JSS AHER a leader in water conservation within the higher education sector.

Building Standards and Policies for Minimizing Water Use

Standards and Practices to Minimize Water Use

    1. LEED Certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
    • JSS AHER integrates LEED-certified building principles in its campus infrastructure, focusing on:
      • Reducing indoor water use through efficient plumbing fixtures.
      • Implementing water-efficient landscaping practices to conserve outdoor water usage.
      • Incorporating innovative solutions like greywater recycling and rainwater harvesting systems.
    1. Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Standards
    • Compliance with IGBC standards ensures:
      • Integration of rainwater harvesting systems in all major buildings.
      • Adoption of water-efficient designs and wastewater treatment technologies.
      • Focus on sustainable construction to reduce the campus’s overall environmental impact.
    1. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Guidelines
    • Adherence to BIS guidelines for water conservation involves:
      • Installation of plumbing fixtures designed to limit water wastage.
      • Use of high-capacity water storage systems for efficient distribution.
      • Regular quality checks to maintain water safety and usability standards.

Key Measures Implemented to Minimize Water Use

  1. Rainwater Harvesting Systems
    • Buildings are designed with rainwater harvesting systems to collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses such as:
      • Landscaping and irrigation.
      • Groundwater recharge through recharge pits and ponds.
    • This practice reduces dependency on municipal water supplies and contributes to long-term water security.
  1. Low-Flow Faucets and Showerheads
    • Installation of low-flow faucets and showerheads across campus facilities reduces water consumption without compromising functionality.
  1. Dual-Flush Toilets
    • Use of dual-flush systems allows users to choose between lower and higher water volumes, significantly reducing water usage per flush.
  1. Greywater Recycling
    • JSS AHER has introduced greywater recycling systems to treat wastewater from sinks and showers.
    • Treated greywater is reused for non-potable applications like flushing toilets and irrigation.
  1. Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for Non-Potable Uses
    • Treated wastewater from the STP is repurposed for:
      • Gardening and landscaping.
      • Sports ground maintenance.
  1. RO Rejected Water Reuse
    • RO-rejected water is collected and reused for maintaining sports grounds and other areas where potable water is not required, optimizing resource utilization.

Policies Supporting Water Conservation at JSS AHER

JSS AHER has a comprehensive Energy Efficiency, Renovation, and New Building Policy, which includes water conservation measures to be adopted in new constructions and renovations. Key highlights include:

  1. Sustainable Building Practices:
    • Use of eco-friendly materials during construction and renovation.
    • Design principles that emphasize minimal water consumption.
  2. Water Efficiency in Renovation:
    • Retrofitting existing buildings with low-flow fixtures, dual-flush systems, and water-efficient HVAC systems.
  3. Monitoring and Audits:
    • Regular green audits to assess water usage and identify improvement opportunities.
    • Installation of water meters to track consumption and detect inefficiencies.
  4. Educational Initiatives:
    • Training programs and signage to promote responsible water use among building occupants.

Signage boards and displays for conservation of water at JSSAHER, Mysuru

Sustainability and Compliance

By collaborating with architects, engineers, and environmental experts, JSS AHER ensures compliance with:

  • Local Regulations: Following rainwater harvesting and wastewater management norms set by the Karnataka State Government.
  • National Standards: Adhering to BIS guidelines and IGBC protocols for sustainable building practices.
  • International Benchmarks: Aligning with global standards like LEED to achieve water efficiency in all construction projects.

Impact of Water Efficiency Measures

  1. Reduction in Water Consumption:
    • Efficient fixtures, greywater recycling, and rainwater harvesting reduce the demand for potable water by over 30%.
  2. Sustainability Leadership:
    • JSS AHER’s compliance with global and national standards positions it as a role model for eco-conscious educational institutions.
  3. Enhanced Awareness:
    • Educational programs foster a culture of sustainability among students, staff, and visitors.

Conclusion

JSS AHER’s adherence to globally recognized building standards and its proactive water management policies underscore its commitment to sustainability. By implementing rainwater harvesting, efficient plumbing fixtures, greywater recycling, and regular audits, the institution has successfully minimized water consumption while promoting eco-consciousness.