Campus Sustainability

Preventing Water System Pollution

Our 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 closely monitored to identify and mitigate potential sources of water pollution, thereby protecting the health and safety of our water environment for our community. Responsible management of water-related activities includes implementing effective drainage systems and conducting regular monitoring and analysis of wastewater quality.

Furthermore, EdUHK is committed to ensuring high standards of drinking water quality. Since 2020, we have participated in the Quality Water Supply Scheme for Buildings – Fresh Water (Management System) initiated by the Water Supplies Department. This initiative underscores our dedication to executing comprehensive water safety plans and maintaining the integrity of our internal plumbing systems, thereby safeguarding the health and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors.

This proactive approach reflects our broader commitment to sustainable water management, as outlined in our Water Management Policy.

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. The wastewater from our campus is discharged into the government sewerage network, which leads to the Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works. The treatment process includes primary treatment such as screening and degritting, followed by secondary biological treatment before final discharge into the sea.

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 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.