Water
We acknowledge we are a significant water consumer. In 2018 this totalled approximately 280,000 kilolitres of mains water.
In the face of a warming global climate, we have committed to using and monitoring natural irrigation for our extensive native bushland campuses to reduce demand for potable water. Our focus will be integrating best-practice water-efficiency measures across infrastructure and aim for Green Star ratings in new builds.
Priority actions
- Increase the natural irrigation of the extensive native bushland campus to reduce the demand for potable water
- Integrate Water Sustainable Urban Design (WSUD) principles into landscape management
- Integrate water efficiency as a key project design component as part of the new Environmental Sustainable Design (ESD) Guideline Tool
Measures of success
- A 15% reduction in mains water usage per square metre across our Gross Floor Area by 2025 (on a 2015 baseline)
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
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.