SDG 6 - Clean Water & Sanitation
Clean Water & Sanitation
Sustainable Development Goal 6, "Clean Water and Sanitation," emphasizes the global commitment to providing safe drinking water and adequate sanitation for everyone. Access to clean water and proper sanitation is essential for health, hygiene, and overall quality of life. This goal addresses urgent issues like water scarcity, poor sanitation facilities, and water pollution, which impact billions globally. In Sri Lanka, challenges such as seasonal water shortages, pollution of freshwater sources, and disparities in sanitation facilities affect communities, especially in rural and underserved areas. Recognizing these needs, the University of Kelaniya is actively contributing to SDG 6 through research, community projects, and campus initiatives focused on sustainable water management.
The university promotes efficient water use on campus, implementing systems to minimize waste and advocating for responsible consumption. Through the installation of rainwater harvesting systems, water-efficient fixtures, and awareness programs, the university reduces water demand while educating students and staff on the importance of conservation. The Center for Sustainability Solutions at the university also undertakes research projects aimed at improving water quality and sanitation practices in surrounding communities, aligning with national priorities for clean water access.
The University of Kelaniya's commitment to SDG 6 not only enhances campus sustainability but also extends to community outreach, supporting the broader mission of providing clean water and improved sanitation for all Sri Lankans. By addressing these critical issues, the university plays a key role in reducing waterborne diseases, improving hygiene standards, and fostering sustainable development across the nation.
Water Usage
Water usage.xlsxWater usage 2023 (In liters)
Water usage 2024 (In liters)
Sustainable Water Management and Sanitation
- National Water Supply and Quality Assurance
The majority of the university’s water is supplied by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board of Sri Lanka, which rigorously treats and maintains the quality of the water to meet national standards. This partnership guarantees that students and staff have access to safe, high-quality drinking water.
- Treated Groundwater for Hostel Use
In addition to municipal water, the university meets its hostel water needs by utilizing treated groundwater wells. This approach provides an alternative water source and reduces demand on the public supply, supporting local water conservation efforts.
For more details:
http://units.kln.ac.lk/css/?ht_project=water-management-at-the-university
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qyQJiysBh5SbD70SOAAfjq1W1m955_YJ?usp=drive_link
Application of Water-Saving Building Standards
- Water and Soap Dispensers
Automatic Soap and Water Dispensers: Installed in high-traffic areas, these dispensers ensure precise control of water and soap, minimizing wastage while promoting hygiene. The automated systems reduce water flow duration, conserving significant amounts of water in the process.
Manual Water and Soap Dispensers with Foot Pedals: These dispensers allow for hands-free operation, reducing water usage by controlling flow and preventing continuous water release. This design promotes water conservation while ensuring hygiene.
2. Energy-Efficient Water Dispensers
Refill Stations for Reusable Bottles: The university has installed energy-efficient water dispensers that enable users to refill cups and reusable bottles, eliminating the need for disposable plastic bottles. This initiative not only conserves water but also reduces plastic waste, aligning with sustainable practices.
3. Energy-Efficient Hand Dryers
Automatic Hand Dryers: The university uses energy-efficient hand dryers that automatically blow air without a heating element. These dryers reduce energy consumption and eliminate the need for paper towels, thus conserving both energy and water indirectly by minimizing the production demand for paper products.
Water Recycling Program Implementation
Wastewater Treatment and Recycling for Landscaping
Wastewater from university hostels is treated and recycled for irrigation on campus grounds, reducing the need for freshwater. Water-saving techniques, including sprinklers and drip irrigation, are used to optimize water use for gardening purposes.
For more details - http://units.kln.ac.lk/css/?ht_project=water-management-at-the-university
Faculty of Information and Technology Wastewater Facility
The recently completed Faculty of Information and Technology site includes a high-capacity wastewater treatment facility (120 m³ per day). Treated water from this facility is repurposed for both gardening and flushing toilets, contributing to sustainable water management and resource conservation.
For more details -
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qyQJiysBh5SbD70SOAAfjq1W1m955_YJ?usp=drive_link
Natural Filtration System at the Faculty of Medicine Girl’s Hostel
The girl’s hostel at the Faculty of Medicine features an underground wastewater treatment system that operates without electricity. This system relies on natural filtration using sand, gravel, and charcoal. Treated water is released to support a local ecosystem with diverse vegetation, enhancing biodiversity on university .
Water mixing tank
Sludge and Sedimentation tank
Treated water storage tank
Wastewater treatment at Ayati Centre, Faculty of Medicine
Water-Efficient Landscaping and Pollution Management
- Water-Efficient Irrigation Systems
To minimize water consumption, the University of Kelaniya utilizes sprinkler and drip irrigation methods. On January 5, 2018, the Landscape Division introduced a sprinkler irrigation system at the campus nursery to address high water usage associated with manual watering. This system mimics natural rainfall by evenly spraying water over plants and soil, allowing adjustable flow rates for specific plant needs. This approach supports both water-loving and drought-tolerant species, ensuring efficient water usage and uniform coverage, reducing overall water consumption for landscape maintenance.
2. Sewage water treatment
Faculty of Computing and Technology constructed sewage water treatment unit and direct treated water for toilet flushing and irrigation. Considering faculties’ geographical location (adjacent to Mudun cannel) this step is very important to prevent contamination and pollution of natural water source.
For more details -
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1M3klKeCumqrEj3hpoysrsfrfc3V7-YIZ?usp=gmail
3. Chemical wastewater treatment
The water contaminated with toxic/hazardous/infectious materials during various laboratory and clinical operations is collected/treated according to health and safety regulations and handed over to licensed external hazardous waste handlers for safe disposal.
For more details - https://units.kln.ac.lk/healthservices/
4. Erosion and Sedimentation Management Plan
The Faculty of Computing and Technology in Paliyagoda has established an Erosion and Sedimentation Management Plan to address land and water pollution risks. This plan mitigates erosion and sediment runoff, preventing contamination of local water sources and supporting sustainable land management practices.
For more details -
· https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kOeYjkqcFkz5V5eAGLoY_o2x9bZ2dyAZ?usp=drive_link
· https://drive.google.com/file/d/10S7mkX6QHVcoe5GbXjK7Q1AgOHt-sPQg/view?usp=drive_link
Rainwater Harvesting System
The University of Kelaniya has implemented a rainwater harvesting system as part of its commitment to sustainable water management. Established on July 28th, 2015, the system consists of six large tanks, each with a capacity of 10,000 liters, providing a total storage capacity of 60,000 liters. During the rainy season, the system collects an average of 750 liters of rainwater per day. This initiative not only contributes to conserving valuable water resources but also serves as an eco-friendly solution for reducing the university's reliance on conventional water supplies, reflecting its broader environmental sustainability.The collected rainwater is primarily used for gardening purposes, supporting eco-friendly landscaping practices. During months without rain, stored water is utilized to maintain the campus green spaces, reducing reliance on municipal water sources.
System Overview
Implementation Date: July 28, 2015
Number of Tanks: 6
Capacity per Tank: 10,000 liters
Total Storage Capacity: 60,000 liters
During the rainy season, the system captures an average of 750 liters of rainwater per day, providing a valuable alternative water source.
Rain Water Harvesting.xlsx
Water Reuse Measurement and Management
The University of Kelaniya employs a systematic approach to water management, leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate water reuse programs. 
- Integration of ICT in Water Management
Smart Water Meters: UoK utilizes smart water meters to accurately track water consumption across campus, enabling precise monitoring and the identification of usage patterns. This system also aids in leak detection and supports water conservation efforts.
Water Level Sensors: Installed in reservoirs, these sensors monitor water levels in real-time, ensuring a balanced water supply and minimizing wastage.
Building Management System (BMS): A comprehensive BMS provides continuous data on water usage and wastewater treatment processes, enabling UoK to analyze consumption trends and optimize water management strategies.
For more details -
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CGoPtI8elY0RFOZbCRIXCqgI8ipCc2UV?usp=drive_link
2. Real-Time Monitoring and Data Analysis
Data Collection and Insights: The BMS collects real-time data, allowing UoK to observe water consumption trends, analyze wastewater treatment efficiency, and make data-driven decisions for sustainable water use.
Informed Decision-Making: Insights from the BMS allow the university to adjust management practices, improve resource allocation, reduce operational costs, and enhance overall sustainability.
For more details -
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1dny-LVpbXAGwXIKan_8Pzpj-G0OgfqqB?usp=drive_link