Green Initiatives
Water Management
EdUHK is committed to responsible water stewardship and the protection of water resources. Through regulatory compliance, water-efficient infrastructure, pollution prevention, rainwater harvesting, regular monitoring and community engagement, the University seeks to reduce water consumption, protect water quality and promote sustainable water use across campus.
Our approach to water management is guided by the University’s Water Management Policy and supports our wider sustainability commitments.
Preventing Water System Pollution
The University is dedicated to safeguarding our water resources through comprehensive measures that prevent water system pollution across campus. We strictly adhere to the requirements of the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (Cap. 358) to ensure all activities comply with established environmental standards.
All campus operations are monitored to identify and control potential sources of water pollution. These measures include:
- appropriate drainage and wastewater management systems
- regular inspection and maintenance of water and drainage infrastructure
- monitoring and analysis of wastewater quality, where applicable
- proper handling and storage of chemicals and hazardous substances
- procedures for responding to spills, leaks and other environmental incidents
- controls to prevent pollutants, oils and other harmful substances from entering drains
The procedures for the storage, use, handling and disposal of hazardous substances are set out in the Health, Safety and Environmental Manual. Staff and students must follow these procedures when working with chemicals and other potentially polluting materials.
Drinking Water Quality and Safety
The University is committed to providing safe and reliable drinking water for all campus members and visitors.
Since 2020, the University has participated in the Quality Water Supply Scheme for Buildings – Fresh Water (Management System) initiated by the Water Supplies Department. Through this scheme, EdUHK implements a water safety management approach covering the University’s internal plumbing systems.
The University’s water safety measures include:
- maintaining the integrity of internal water supply systems
- implementing appropriate inspection and maintenance procedures
- managing potential risks associated with water storage and distribution
- taking corrective action when irregularities are identified
Waste Water Treatment and Discharge Compliance
The University adheres strictly to the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (Cap. 358) and related technical standards to ensure that all wastewater discharged from our campus meets the required environmental safety criteria. Our wastewater treatment processes are designed to comply with the standards set by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD), with specific limits on permissible substances to prevent water pollution.
Wastewater generated on campus is discharged into the government sewerage network, which conveys it to the Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works. The treatment process includes primary treatment, such as screening and degritting, followed by secondary biological treatment before the treated effluent is discharged into the sea.
The University takes steps to ensure that wastewater entering the sewerage system meets applicable discharge requirements. These steps include:
- maintaining suitable drainage and wastewater infrastructure
- monitoring wastewater quality where required
- preventing oils, chemicals and other pollutants from entering drains
- inspecting and maintaining relevant treatment and drainage equipment
- responding to abnormal discharge conditions or pollution incidents
Regular Maintenance and Leak Prevention
Regular inspection and maintenance of plumbing, drainage, irrigation and water-related equipment are essential components of water management approach. Estates Office carries out routine inspections to identify and address:
- leaking faucets, pipes and water tanks
- defective flushing systems
- damaged irrigation equipment
- abnormal water consumption
- blocked or damaged drainage systems
- faults in water-efficient or monitoring equipment
Campus members are encouraged to report leaks or other water-related problems promptly through online Defects Rectification Works Request Form (staff only) or via email at wmeo@eduhk.hk.
Water Conscious Building Standards
Our campus infrastructure is designed with sustainability and water efficiency in mind. Key features include:
- Water Efficiency of Cooling Tower: We employ real-time chemical monitoring and dosing controllers that optimize chemical usage and enhance water quality. These systems are integrated with automated bleed-off mechanisms, which discharge water based on live water quality data, minimizing unnecessary water wastage.
- Water-Efficient Fittings and Appliances: We install fixtures and appliances that are certified under the Hong Kong Water Supplies Department’s Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme or equivalent standards (Grade 1 and 2), ensuring optimal water use across our facilities.
- Rainwater Harvesting System: In Eco-Garden, rainwater is collected in the Rainwater Harvesting System for irrigation, significantly reducing the reliance on potable water for landscaping needs.
- Behaviour-activated Showerheads: Behaviour-activated showerhead has a built-in LED light system and water usage monitor. The indicator light will be changed according to users’ water usage and serves as a reminder when water is overused. The showerheads have been installed in the Grantham Hall and Robert Black Hall as a joint-university pilot programme.
Through these measures, our campus continually strives to reduce water consumption, promote sustainable practices, and foster a culture of conservation among our community members.
Water Filling Stations
There are currently 22 drinking water stations across the Tai Po Campus, providing students, staff and visitors with convenient access to free drinking water.
These facilities do not only support healthy hydration. They also reduce dependence on single-use plastic bottles by encouraging the use of reusable containers.
For locations of the drinking water stations, please click HERE.
Water Conscious Planting
Our landscaping practices aim to reduce water consumption by incorporating water-efficient techniques. This includes the use of rainwater harvesting for irrigation and water-saving irrigation systems. Also we select plant species such as native and drought-tolerant varieties where appropriate, to further minimize watering needs.
Sustainable Water Extraction on Campus
The water pond in our Eco-garden collects rainwater from the surrounding area. Water from the pond is extracted by sets of pumps into an irrigation tank. The irrigation system automatically waters the landscape areas using a timer-controlled mechanism.
Promoting Responsible Water Use
The University seeks to foster a culture of responsible water consumption among students, staff, contractors and visitor, and promotes practical actions such as:
- taking shorter showers
- turning off faucets when water is not required
- reporting leaks promptly
- avoiding the unnecessary use of potable water
- following water-saving instructions displayed on campus
- using water responsibly in laboratories, residences, offices and other facilities
Strategically placed signs and educational materials remind users to adopt water-saving practices at washrooms, shower facilities, drinking water stations and other relevant locations.