Murdoch University
Water Conservation and Waste Water Reuse Policy
Policy Statement
Murdoch University will encourage the conservation and where possible the reuse
of waste water in the management and development of its campuses.
Policy Objectives
- To promote and develop water conservation measures at Murdoch University
campuses and the application of appropriate technologies for the recycling
and reuse of waste water.
- To ensure that design for good environmental performance, public health
and amenity is considered in conjunction with other design considerations
in future development.
Policy Principles
Water Conservation
Murdoch University supports the following water conservation strategies;
- The gradual replacement of existing single flush cisterns with water conserving
models.
- The use of conventional shower heads with suitable low flow models.
- Efficient irrigation technology (eg timer taps where manual operation occurs,
soil moisture sensors where programmable controllers are used, subsurface
and drip irrigation systems in garden beds and laws where applicable).
- The use of water efficient devices (eg AAA rated where possible).
- The use of dry composting toilets in appropriate locations, eg sports ovals,
adjacent to outdoor social areas.
- Planting of native species (trees, shrubs and grasses) to reduce water demand.
- The use of mulching, bark chips and green waste to reduce evaporation and
therefore increase water use efficiency.
- The use of rainwater tanks where appropriate.
- The use of rainwater tanks to supply toilets.
Wastewater Reuse
Murdoch University supports the following wastewater reuse strategies;
· Small scale onsite treatment systems for sewage and grey water disposal
and the use of treated wastewater for sub surface irrigation.
· Aquifer storage and recovery.
· Treated sewage effluent reuse for horticulture irrigation and plantings
where possible.
Corporate
Murdoch University supports the following corporate strategies;
· The awareness and demonstration of water conservation, and reuse possibilities.
· Strategic partnerships with professional associations that are involved
with water conservation activities eg. Master Plumbers Association, Department
of Environment and Catchment Protection, Water Corporation, Australian Water
Association, Irrigation Association of Australia.
· Improving awareness of development preferences amongst home buyers,
developers, designers, builders, business groups and Government authorities.
Policy Implementation
This policy will be implemented through regular water auditing and a water
action plan.
Monitoring and Auditing
Performance indicators are:
Mains water consumption - kilolitres per annum
Ground water consumption - kilolitres per annum
Consumption targets have yet to be determined.
Authorised By:
Signed by VC on behalf of the senate.
Responsibilities
It remains the responsibility of the Office of Facilities Management to implement
the principles of this policy with guidance from the Environmental Committee.
Related policies and procedures
Department of Health - Guidelines for Greywater Re-Use.
State Water Conservation Strategy, Draft July 2002
Australian Greenhouse Office - Greenhouse Challenge Program
All relevant building and landscaping design tender specifications
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