Water usage and care: water system pollution prevention

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is committed to preventing water system pollution through a comprehensive framework of policies, infrastructure initiatives, and research efforts. These measures are designed to ensure that polluted water does not enter the water system, including addressing potential pollution from accidents and incidents on campus.

Policy Framework

UJ has established the Energy, Resource, Waste, and Sustainability (ERWSus) Policy, which outlines the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This policy provides guidelines for managing resources responsibly, including water usage and pollution prevention. The ERWSus Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure its effectiveness and relevance, with the latest review conducted in 2022 and the next scheduled for 2023. 

In addition to the ERWSus Policy, UJ adheres to the Campuses Maintenance Policy and Procedure Manual. This manual mandates compliance with South African National Building Standards and the City of Johannesburg Building Standards to ensure all university buildings meet required safety and environmental regulations. The manual emphasizes the university’s responsibility to maintain facilities that prevent environmental hazards, including water pollution. 

Infrastructure Initiatives

UJ has implemented several infrastructure projects aimed at reducing water consumption and preventing pollution:

• Grey Water Reuse Systems: In 2023, UJ installed its first grey water trial system on the Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB) Campus, targeting two large residences. This initiative is expected to save over 4 million litres of water annually by recycling water from showers and sinks for non-potable uses, thereby reducing the volume of wastewater entering the sewage system. 
• Water-Conscious Building Standards: The university incorporates water-efficient fixtures and systems in new constructions and renovations. For instance, 95% of residences have been equipped with water-restricting showerheads, and all new residences are fitted with low-flow fixtures to minimize water usage and potential wastewater generation. 

Research and Development

UJ actively engages in research to advance wastewater treatment technologies:

• Innovative Wastewater Treatment: A collaborative research project between UJ and the University of the Witwatersrand led to the development of a novel protein-based nanobiosorbent. This technology utilizes genetically engineered proteins to effectively remove heavy metals, such as lead, from contaminated water. This advancement offers a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical treatments, reducing the risk of environmental contamination from industrial effluents. 

Monitoring and Compliance

UJ is committed to transparency and accountability in its environmental practices:

• Sustainability Reporting: The university publishes an annual Sustainability Report following the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G4 guidelines. This report details UJ’s environmental impact, including water management practices, and outlines strategies for continuous improvement. The inaugural report was published in 2023, providing a comprehensive overview of the university’s sustainability efforts. 

Through its robust policies, proactive infrastructure projects, cutting-edge research, and commitment to transparency, the University of Johannesburg demonstrates a strong dedication to preventing water system pollution and promoting environmental sustainability.