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MEMORANDUM Series of 2025

January 10, 2025

Compliance with Water-Conscious Building Standards

All Heads of Offices, Building Administrators, and Facilities Maintenance Personnel

In pursuit of our commitment to environmental sustainability and in alignment with the University’s application to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings under SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, all units of the Universidad de Manila (UDM) are hereby directed to strictly implement Water-Conscious Building Standards across all campus facilities.

Purpose

This advisory aims to institutionalize water-efficient practices in building construction, maintenance, and operations within the university to reduce water consumption, prevent wastage, and promote sustainable use of freshwater resources.

Policy Guidelines

    1. Water-Efficient Fixtures and Equipment
      All newly constructed and renovated buildings must be equipped with water-saving devices, including but not limited to:
      • Low-flow faucets and showerheads
      • Dual-flush toilets and waterless urinals
      • Timed or sensor-activated taps in public restrooms
    1. Preventive Maintenance and Leak Management
      Regular inspections must be conducted by the building maintenance units to detect and promptly repair leaks, inefficient plumbing, or defective water systems. A reporting mechanism should be instituted to allow students and staff to notify authorities of observed leakages or water misuse.
    1. Rainwater Harvesting and Greywater Recycling
      Where feasible, building plans must incorporate systems for rainwater collection and greywater reuse (e.g., for toilet flushing, landscape irrigation, or cleaning purposes), in accordance with national building codes and DENR guidelines.
    1. Sustainable Landscaping
      Outdoor landscaping should utilize native or drought-resistant plant species to minimize irrigation demand. Drip irrigation systems and water-permeable surfaces must be prioritized.
    1. Behavioral Campaigns and Water Conservation Education
      The university shall sustain information drives to encourage students, faculty, and personnel to adopt responsible water-use behavior. Signages on water-saving tips shall be installed in key areas.
    1. Monitoring and Evaluation
      The Campus Planning and Development Office (CPDO), in coordination with the General Services Office (GSO), shall conduct semi-annual audits of water consumption patterns and recommend action points for improvement.

Compliance

All offices are enjoined to review current practices and submit a brief compliance report to the Office of the Vice President for Administration not later than [Insert Deadline]. Non-compliance shall be subject to administrative review and may affect the office/unit’s eligibility for future resource allocations.

 

Let us collectively uphold our environmental responsibility by integrating water-conscious principles in the stewardship of our university infrastructure.

 

For strict implementation.

Downloadable File