Goal 6. Clean Water and Sanitation
6.4.1 Water Reuse Policy
Background
Egypt has been suffering from severe water scarcity in recent years. Uneven water distribution, misuse of water resources and inefficient irrigation techniques are some of the major factors playing havoc with water security in the country. Egypt has only 20 cubic meters per person of internal renewable freshwater resources, and as a result, the country relies heavily on the Nile River for its main source of water. The River Nile is the backbone of Egypt’s industrial and agricultural sector and is the primary source of drinking water for the population. Rising populations and rapid economic development in the countries of the Nile Basin, pollution and environmental degradation are decreasing water availability in the country. Egypt is facing an annual water deficit of around 7 billion cubic meters. In fact, United Nations is already warning that Egypt could run out of water by the year 2025.
AASTMT is taking steps to reduce our consumption of potable water. Through solutions like those below we are using this precious resource more efficiently to protect water for future generations.
- Cutting Back on Car Washing
AASTMT use many vehicles on and off campus, and those vehicles need to be washed, but not frequently. AASTMT have cut back on car washing in their motor pools to save water.
- Using Campus Resources
Access to creeks and wells on campus land. Almost 55 percent of water used for irrigation comes from water sourced on AASTMT’s own land.
- Installing Water sprays
AASTMT used water saving devices like sprayers on water taps in the new buildings. This measure alone has helped to reduce water usage in these buildings by over 30 percent.
- A New Low Flow Standard
AASTMT management decided a new standard low flow showerheads and faucets, as well as low water volume toilets and urinals to reduce the consumption of potable water.
- Dual Flush Toilets
In addition to low flow toilets, ASTMT also using dual flush toilets, which allow toilets to use less water unless deemed necessary by their users.
- Educating Students
At AAST, students arriving on campus will learn about water conservation in their orientation meetings, and the campus offers dorm room usage audits as well.
- Going Tray less
The main campus-dining hall conserves about 100 cubic meters of water annually by going “trayless.” Each avoided tray saves about 3 cups of water of water.
- Leak Detection Technology
New buildings employ water conservation technology that includes leak detection, allowing them to identify and correct leaks that exist on campus.
- Updated Laundry Rooms
AASTMT upgrading to high efficiency front loading washers, and becoming even more energy efficient by using technology that allows them to monitor the status of the machines.
- Leak Reporting
Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to report any leaks that they see. Doing so can alert the maintenance staff to undiscovered sources of water waste that can be resolved easily.
- Water Use Monitoring
Enhancing awareness of water usage can help conservation efforts, making those who consume water more careful in their usage. AASTMT have shared water use data within the campus to spotlight conservation of water.
- Updated Facilities Equipment
Water-cooled compressors, single pass chillers, cooling towers, and more equipment often use water, but not efficiently AASTMT replacing water-cooled compressors with air- cooled ones.
- Hand Sanitizer Installation
AASTMT have cut down on water used for sanitation purposes by installing hand sanitizers in bathrooms and other common areas. For quick sanitation purposes, a full hand wash using water is not needed, and alcohol-based sanitizer can be used instead.
- Water Coolers and Taps
Water coolers allow students, faculty and staff to fill up reusable containers instead of buying bottled water. AASTMT have employed the use of units that dispense filtered water.
- Collaboration and Partnerships:
Collaboration and partnerships are central to AAST’s water sustainability efforts. We recognize the need to make significant progress, we are therefore committed to working closely with local water authorities, environmental organizations, and community groups. Together, we will develop strategies and engage in joint projects aimed at improving local water quality and availability.
- Education and Outreach:
The AAST recognizes the pivotal role of education and outreach in promoting water sustainability in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. We are committed to fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility among students, staff, and the broader community through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns. By engaging with local schools, community organizations, and the public at large, we aim to be a active in promoting water conservation and sanitation.
