Conscious water usage promotion on campus

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) actively promotes conscious water usage on its campuses through a combination of policy implementation, infrastructural improvements, and awareness campaigns. These efforts are designed to foster a culture of water conservation among students, staff, and visitors.

Policy Framework

UJ’s commitment to sustainable water management is articulated in its Energy, Resource, Waste, and Sustainability (ERWSus) Policy. Established in 2022, this policy outlines strategies for efficient resource utilisation, with a significant focus on water conservation. The policy undergoes regular reviews to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with current environmental challenges. 

Infrastructural Initiatives

To reduce water consumption, UJ has implemented several infrastructural measures:

• Installation of Water-Efficient Fixtures: The university has achieved a 95% installation rate of water-restricting showerheads in student residences. Additionally, all new residences are equipped with low-flow fixtures to minimise water usage. 
• Borehole Utilisation: UJ has operationalised four new boreholes since 2022 to supplement water supply across all campuses, reducing reliance on municipal sources. 
• Greywater Recycling: A greywater trial system has been installed on the Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB) Campus, targeting two large residences. This system is projected to conserve over 4 million litres of water annually by repurposing water from showers and sinks for non-potable uses. 

Awareness Campaigns

Recognising the importance of behavioural change in water conservation, UJ conducts regular awareness campaigns:

• Campus and Residence Outreach: The university organises campaigns aimed at educating the campus community about the importance of water conservation and practical steps to reduce water usage. 
• UJ BluJoy Water Campaign: This initiative focuses on promoting sustainable water practices through educational materials and community engagement, both on and off-campus. 

Through these comprehensive measures, the University of Johannesburg demonstrates a robust commitment to promoting conscious water usage, integrating policy, infrastructure, and community engagement to foster a sustainable campus environment.