Goal 6:
Clean Water and Sanitation
Sustainable Water Extraction on Campus
The University of Newcastle directly employs sustainable water extraction and reuse technologies across our associated grounds, with practical emphasis on reducing reliance on potable water and enhancing environmental resilience.
On our campus, we implement a range of water reuse systems that extract and repurpose non-potable water for irrigation and amenities. In 2024, the University consumed a total of 5,536 kL of non-potable water, including 1,925 kL from dams and 3,611 kL from rainwater containers, accounting for approximately 2.5% of total water consumption.
These sources are used primarily for irrigating sporting ovals and bushland, helping to reduce pressure on municipal water supplies.
To further support sustainable extraction, the University has constructed:
- Two million litres of stormwater retention ponds
- Three 1,000 kL dams with reuse volumes of over 1,000 kL/year
- Multiple large-scale rainwater tanks, including two 1.1 million-litre containers installed in 2021
- 2024 Hydro Harvester
These initiatives highlight our commitment to sustainable development. And the 2024 University of Newcastle SDG Progress Report highlights our leadership in developing technologies and strategies that safeguard water resources both on and off campus.
The Hydro Harvester Launch
“It’s [Hydro Harvester] a phenomenal idea brought to life by the University of Newcastle, and I couldn’t be prouder to be supporting this as a member of the Federal Government.”
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.