Sustainability and Climate Action Policy
I. Purpose
The University of Chittagong recognizes its role in contributing to Bangladesh's efforts to fulfill its obligations to the world in achieving the targets of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This Sustainability/climate action policy highlights the University's commitment to enhancing sustainability practices in all aspects of its operations, including academic, operational, and community engagement. The policy aims to promote sustainable development, reduce the University's environmental impact, and encourage global environmental stewardship.
II. Scope
This policy applies to all members of the university community, including students, faculty, staff, and external partners, and is binding for all faculties, departments, and units.
III. Policy Objectives
a) Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy: Maximize renewable energy sources and improve energy efficiency across all university operations.
b) Waste Management and Recycling: Implement comprehensive waste reduction, recycling, and responsible disposal practices.
c) Water Conservation and Management: Enhance water conservation techniques and ensure the protection and sustainable use of on-campus water resources.
d) Sustainable Transportation: Reduce the carbon footprint associated with the university transportation systems.
e) Green Building and Campus Infrastructure: Adhere to sustainable construction and maintenance practices in all campus developments.
f) Research, Education, and Community Engagement: Integrate sustainability into the curriculum and engage with local and global communities on sustainability projects.
g) Monitoring and Implementation: Establish robust mechanisms to monitor and report on the progress toward achieving sustainability goals.
IV. Policy Implementation
a) Energy Initiatives:
i. All new buildings must comply with the Bangladesh National Building Code regarding solar energy installation.
ii. Conduct routine energy audits to improve energy efficiency at all facilities.
iii. Transition existing energy systems to include a significant percentage of renewable energy by 2030.
b) Waste Reduction:
i. Develop a centralized waste management system to handle all types of waste generated on campus, focusing on recycling and minimizing landfill use.
ii. Promote waste reduction initiatives across campus, including digitalizing paper processes.
iii. Promotion of student initiatives and develop partnerships to enhance recycling and reuse for circularity.
iv. Conduct waste audit to find means to reduce material footprint and minimize waste generation.
v. Dedicated waste management guidance and training for laboratory waste management.
c) Water Resource Management:
i. Protect and restore natural water bodies on campus through dedicated research and practical conservation projects.
ii. Implement water-saving technologies and practices in all university facilities.
iii. Enhanced community outreach to help them becoming more resilience to water stress under climate change scenarios.
iv. Contribute in water science towards sustainable living, sustainable production and consumption, pollution reduction and innovate more sustainable water sourcing.
d) Sustainable Transportation:
i. Explore and implement sustainable alternatives for diesel and petrol vehicles, including biodiesel and electric vehicles.
ii. Enhance the efficiency of the shuttle train and increase the use of electric tricycles within the campus.
e) Construction and Maintenance:
i. Ensure all new construction and renovations are performed by green building standards.
ii. Optimize the use of natural light and ventilation in building designs.
f) Education and Research:
i. Incorporate sustainability topics broadly across curricula and promote sustainability-focused research.
ii. Foster community-based sustainability projects and partnerships.
g) Funding and Collaboration:
i. Secure and manage funding from national and international sources to support sustainability projects.
ii. Strengthen partnerships with government, non-government, and international organizations to advance sustainability initiatives.
V. Overseeing Sustainability Initiatives
The University is planning to establish a team dedicated to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The team will be responsible for overseeing routine reporting on the progress made towards achieving the SDGs, raising awareness among students, staff, and faculty members, and updating policies and guidelines related to the SDGs. The goal is to help the University administration in launching new projects and initiatives that will further advance the University's reputation as a global center of excellence in sustainability.
VI. Monitoring and Evaluation
In collaboration with the Institutional Quality Assurance Cell, the SDG team will develop and utilize specific indicators to measure the effectiveness of sustainability implementations. Regular reports will be submitted to the university administration and available to the university community.
VII. Compliance and Enforcement
Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all university operations. The SDG team will oversee its implementation and adherence, and violations will be addressed promptly to ensure compliance.
VIII. Review and Amendment
This policy will be reviewed biennially or as needed to reflect new scientific findings, technological advancements, and best practices in environmental sustainability. Amendments will continuously be made to improve the policy's effectiveness and relevance.