SDG 7 - Affordable & Clean Energy

Affordable & Clean Energy

Human activities, particularly fossil fuel consumption, are major contributors to climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions. Fossil fuels, still widely used worldwide, release pollutants that accelerate global warming. Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, however, offer cleaner, sustainable alternatives. By shifting to these sources, we can reduce environmental harm, conserve non-renewable resources, and lessen risks from environmental disasters such as oil spills. The United Nations has highlighted the critical importance of clean energy in its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with SDG-7 aiming for universal access to affordable and clean energy by 2030. Energy powers essential sectors like healthcare, education, and transportation, making SDG-7 foundational to achieving other sustainability goals. This goal is a driving force behind global efforts to transition towards renewable energy sources.

In Sri Lanka, the energy landscape currently depends on a combination of fossil fuels and renewable sources. The government has set ambitious targets, aiming for 70% renewable energy in electricity production by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. To support these goals, the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA) was established in 2007 to drive nationwide efforts in energy efficiency and sustainable resource management.

The University of Kelaniya aligns with these national objectives by incorporating sustainable practices and renewable energy initiatives within its all premises. As an academic institution, it not only contributes to sustainable energy use but also actively educates and engages students and faculty in research and innovation focused on clean energy. Through these efforts, the university plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development practices in line with both national targets and the global SDGs.

University Policies and Circulars

Electricity Usage per Year (in kWh)

Electricity consumption (kWh).xlsx

Commitment to Renewable Energy Initiatives

The University of Kelaniya is advancing its sustainable energy agenda with remarkable initiatives that align with the global call for clean energy under SDG Goal 7. The university is focused on integrating renewable energy sources across its campuses, demonstrating a strong commitment to energy conservation and emission reduction.

Renewable Energy Production at the University of Kelaniya

Ratio of renewable energy production divided by total energy usage per year

Usually, Sri Lanka receives nearly 10 hours of sunlight per day, and this calculation was used as 6 hours of average sunlight when considering rainy weather etc.

Annual renewable energy production = (11,150.75 + 580,350 + 1,825)

= 593,325.75 kWh

Annual total electricity usage = 4,539,236 kWh

The ratio of renewable energy production per year

= (593,325.75 kWh/4,539,236 kWh)*100

= 13.07 %

Solar Power Expansion

The university has successfully installed multiple solar power systems, showcasing a progressive shift towards renewable energy:

Main University Premises: A 10 KW solar power system is installed, contributing significantly to on-campus energy needs.
Faculty of Medicine: A 5 KW solar system has been installed to support faculty-specific energy requirements.
Faculty of Computing and Technology: A flagship 250 KW solar panel system highlights the university’s large-scale commitment to sustainable power, making it one of the campus’s most impactful renewable projects.

2. Harnessing Wind Energy

The Faculty of Computing and Technology has taken steps to diversify the university's energy sources by implementing a 5 KW wind power system. This addition not only broadens the renewable energy mix but also serves as an innovative example of harnessing natural resources to achieve energy efficiency.

3. Biogas Production

The University of Kelaniya has embarked on an innovative biogas production initiative, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable energy and efficient waste management. With two operational biogas units, the university effectively converts kitchen waste into clean energy, contributing to both SDG 7 and broader environmental goals.

Biogas Unit I (Faculty of Medicine)

Capacity and Input: This primary biogas unit, with a volume of 5000 liters, utilizes 30 kg of kitchen waste daily, transforming it into a reliable source of biogas energy.
Output: Each day, the unit generates approximately 2 kg of biogas, equivalent to 30.55 kWh of energy, alongside 100 liters of liquid compost. This dual output supports both clean energy needs and the production of natural fertilizers, reducing chemical input in landscaping and agricultural activities on campus.

Biogas Unit II (Base Canteen)

Pilot Project: With a volume of 500 liters, this smaller, pilot biogas unit at the Base Canteen was established by the Department of Zoology and Environmental Management to test and refine biogas production methods on a smaller scale.
Oversight and Impact: Managed by experts in environmental sciences, this unit represents an educational opportunity as well as a functional energy source, emphasizing the university's integrated approach to sustainability.

Energy Management Action Plan

Energy Management Action Plan .xlsx

The University of Kelaniya's Energy Management Action Plan reflects a proactive commitment to energy conservation and climate change mitigation. Through comprehensive strategies and community engagement, the university fosters a sustainable campus environment aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. Key components include:

Awareness Initiatives
To cultivate a campus culture of sustainability, the university implements various awareness programs, such as stickers, posters, labeled switches, media clips, and engaging competitions. These initiatives encourage energy-conscious behaviors among students and staff, reinforcing a collective commitment to reducing energy consumption.
Energy Audits and Goal Setting
Regular energy audits establish a clear baseline of energy consumption across the campus. These assessments enable the university to set measurable targets and prioritize energy-saving measures, ensuring a data-driven approach to reducing energy use and emissions.
Stakeholder Engagement
The Energy Management Action Plan values the input of the university community. Stakeholder feedback sessions and brainstorming workshops align the plan with the needs and ideas of students, faculty, and staff, strengthening support and fostering shared responsibility for sustainability goals.
Structured Implementation and Policy Development
Clear, actionable steps guide the execution of the Energy Management Action Plan, from policy drafting to on-the-ground implementation. This structured approach ensures that each initiative is systematically advanced toward meaningful energy reduction and climate impact.
Continuous Monitoring and Improvement
Ongoing data recording, along with regular reviews and updates, maintains the plan’s relevance and effectiveness. This commitment to continuous improvement positions the University of Kelaniya as a model for sustainable energy management, driving progress toward a reduced carbon footprint and a cleaner, more energy-efficient future.

Per capita Carbo Footprint

0.171 metric tons per person

Comprehensive Carbon Management and Emissions Reduction Strategy

Sustainable Transportation

Campus Hostel Facilities

The university provides on-campus accommodation to over 7,000 students, reducing the need for daily commuting and encouraging a low-carbon lifestyle. With most students walking to class, this setup significantly lowers transportation-related emissions and contributes to a greener campus environment.

Bicycle Network Development

The university is planning a dedicated bicycle network to promote safe and convenient cycling across campus. This initiative will include clear signage for vehicular, pedestrian, and cycling routes, creating a safer environment and supporting active, emission-free transportation options for the university community.

Shuttle Service for Students and Staff

A university shuttle service is available to facilitate efficient movement for students and staff, reducing the need for personal vehicle use. This service lowers overall campus traffic and contributes to emission reductions by minimizing individual car trips.

2. Digital Transformation

E-Learning System for a Paperless Campus

The Learning Management System (LMS) provides a digital platform where students and instructors access textbooks, lecture notes, and other course materials online. This shift from printed materials to digital resources significantly reduces paper consumption, contributing to environmental sustainability.

For more details: https://ekel.kln.ac.lk/login/index.php

Online Student Handbooks

In a move towards a greener approach, the university has replaced printed student handbooks and other documents with online versions. This transition minimizes paper use and reinforces the university’s commitment to sustainability, offering an accessible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly resource for students.

For more details:

https://science.kln.ac.lk/index.php/for-students/handbooks

ICT Center's Sustainable Paper Reduction Initiatives

The ICT Center leads several paper-saving initiatives, including an Electronic Document Management System (DMS) for efficient document handling, online course registrations, and paperless administrative processes. By supporting e-learning platforms and encouraging electronic communication, the ICT Center plays a pivotal role in minimizing paper use across campus.

For more details:https://ict.kln.ac.lk/

Digital Laboratory Scheduling System

To streamline laboratory reservations, the university has introduced a digital scheduling system that eliminates traditional paper-based reservation forms. This system enhances efficiency, convenience, and sustainability in laboratory management, reducing administrative paper waste.

PeoplesHR: Digital HR Management

The university’s digital Human Resource Management System, PeoplesHR, enables staff to handle HR-related tasks online, from leave applications to attendance tracking. This digital platform minimizes paper use in HR processes, aligning with the university’s sustainability goals while improving operational efficiency

weblink: https://hris.kln.ac.lk/HRMV9/security/login?ReturnUrl=%2fHRMV9

Library’s Digital Transformation

The University Library has digitized its catalog, expanded access to e-books and e-journals, and integrated online databases. These initiatives reduce the need for printed catalogs and physical copies, making research and resource access more sustainable and convenient for students and faculty.

For more details: https://library.kln.ac.lk/

3. Tree Plantation Initiatives

Mangrove Restoration for Coastal Resilience

The university has planted over 1,200 mangrove plants in coastal areas, highlighting the critical role of mangroves in climate resilience. Mangroves sequester carbon up to ten times more effectively than terrestrial forests and provide essential protection against coastal erosion and flooding, supporting both biodiversity and local communities.

Terrestrial Reforestation for Ecosystem Health

On university and in surrounding areas, the university has restored more than 1,000 terrestrial plants. These plantations aid in absorbing atmospheric CO₂, enhancing soil health, and promoting biodiversity, thereby strengthening local ecosystems and helping mitigate climate change.

Environmental Awareness and Climate Action

Beyond planting, the university’s initiatives raise awareness among students and staff, inspiring a culture of climate action and fostering long-term commitment to ecosystem restoration.

4. Paper Waste Reduction Initiatives

Double-Sided Printing: All university departments are encouraged to set office printers to double-sided printing by default. This measure reduces paper use, lowers printing costs, and conserves natural resources.

Paper and Cardboard Recycling: Dedicated bins for paper and cardboard recycling have been placed in accessible locations across departments. Staff are encouraged to separate recyclable materials, supporting efficient processing.

Envelope Reuse: Envelopes are repurposed for internal mailing, reducing the need for new materials.

Digital Attendance and Inventory Systems: The university utilizes an online attendance platform for non-academic staff and a QR code system for inventorying furniture and equipment, minimizing paper-based record-keeping.

Online Ethics Applications: The Ethics and Review Committee has transitioned to online-only applications, reducing paper waste in administrative processes.

Digital Newspapers: Monthly university newspapers are now available online, promoting paperless information dissemination.

weblink: https://libnewbooks.info/newsletter-uok/

5. Minimizing Plastic Water Bottle Use

Following a 2015 progress meeting, the university established guidelines to discourage the use of plastic water bottles. When plastic bottles are necessary, users must submit a recycling plan upon request for purchase approval. This policy reduces plastic waste and encourages responsible recycling practices across the university.

Plastic Water Bottle Policy

6. Introduction of Reusable Bags

As a sustainable alternative to polythene, the Center for Sustainability Solutions has introduced reusable bags available to staff and students for Rs. 50. These bags are compact, easy to carry, and sourced from low-income communities as part of the university’s social responsibility efforts, promoting both environmental and social benefits.

6. Energy Efficient Appliances Usage

Optimized Air-Conditioning and Insulation Practices

The Green Concept provides specific guidelines for the efficient use of air conditioning in lecture halls, laboratories, and other campus spaces. Recommendations for proper room insulation help maintain temperatures effectively, reducing the need for excessive energy use.

Responsible Electricity Usage

The university actively promotes mindful electricity use by encouraging students and staff to turn off lights and devices when not in use. This behavior shift contributes to a culture of energy consciousness and waste reduction across the university.

Inverter-Type Air Conditioners

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the University of Kelaniya exclusively installs inverter-type air conditioners, which are more energy-efficient and support the institution’s goal of a greener university environment.

7. Smart Building Initiatives and Energy-Efficient Infrastructure

Smart Building Implementation

The university integrates smart building technologies in new construction projects, aiming for enhanced energy efficiency and sustainability. Approximately 32.30% of the university’s building area incorporates smart features, which allow for optimized energy use, advanced lighting control, and efficient climate management.

Energy-Efficient Lighting and Cooling Systems

All new buildings are equipped with a mix of energy-efficient LED lighting and natural light sources to lower electricity consumption. Additionally, these structures utilize natural cooling methods, and where air conditioning is necessary, energy-saving inverter-type units are installed to minimize the environmental impact.

Green Roofs and Passive Cooling Techniques

The university incorporates green covers, solar roofing, and passive cooling methods. These features reduce dependency on artificial cooling and improve the buildings' overall cooling efficiency, creating a comfortable environment with minimal energy expenditure.

8. Building Management System

1. CO₂ Level Monitoring and Ventilation Management

The BMS continuously monitors CO₂ levels within the building to maintain optimal air quality. By adjusting ventilation systems based on real-time CO₂ data, the BMS ensures efficient air circulation without excessive energy use, directly contributing to lower energy consumption and reduced emissions.

2. Smart Air Conditioning Control

Air conditioning, a high-energy system, is managed through the BMS, which adjusts cooling based on occupancy and actual temperature needs. This targeted approach allows the A/C systems to run only when necessary, significantly reducing energy consumption and minimizing the building's dependence on fossil-fuel-based electricity.

3. Continuous Energy Tracking and Targeted Improvements

The BMS provides ongoing tracking of energy consumption, enabling the faculty to identify energy-intensive areas and make improvements. With insights gained from the system, FCT can upgrade equipment, modify usage patterns, and implement energy-saving measures.

9. Impactful Community Programs on Climate Change

1.Sustainability Leadership Training Program (SLTP)

Scope: National | Participants: 20 Teachers, 100 Students

The Center for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) offers the SLTP to foster environmental leadership among university students. This program, aligned with UN SDGs, equips participants with knowledge on green concepts and sustainable practices to address climate challenges.

For more details - https://units.kln.ac.lk/css/

2. Workshop on Energy-Saving Strategies

Scope: Students and University Staff

The Green Practices Committee of the Faculty of Medicine in collaboration with the Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) organized an awareness lecture on Plastic Waste Management at the Faculty premises on 3rd October 2023. The lecture was conducted by Prof. Thilini Gunasekara at the Department of Polymer Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. She is also the educational director at the Plastic and Rubber Institute. During the lecture, Prof. Gunasekara initiated a dialogue on the harmful environmental, social, and economic consequences of improper plastic waste disposal.

For more details - https://medicine.kln.ac.lk/prog/gpc/index.php/awareness-plastic-waste-management

The uncertain future of Manta and Devil rays

For more details - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086643502700

13th International Conference on Business and Information 2022

For more details - https://conf.kln.ac.lk/icbi/images/M2022/V6-Abstract_Book_-_ICBI_2022.pdf

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