October 27th, 2015: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has teamed up with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to further strengthen its sustainable environmental practices in the management of physical infrastructure and campus facilities.
A team of DEWA engineers recently visited the University to evaluate current environmental policies and systems, and to offer recommendations for measures that could further enhance CUD’s existing sustainability credentials.
CUD has been recognized in the higher education sector as a leader in the environmental movement. In recent years, the University has adapted its lighting, air conditioning and water consumption systems to improve its energy efficiency and reduce its use of natural resources. The institution was recognized for its efforts with a DEWA Conservation Award in 2014.
According to Koutaiba Ahmed, Senior Manager of Physical Resources and Procurement at CUD, there are a number of no- or low-cost solutions that can make a real impact in terms of reducing energy consumption.
He said, “Some of our major energy savers have been cost-free initiatives such as turning off water chillers between 11pm and 5am, and implementing a campus-wide policy on the regulation of air conditioning temperature.
“We have also made some small investments that have brought about significant savings, both in terms of natural and financial resources, including the installation of motion-sensor taps in all washroom facilities on campus.”
During their visit around the University campus, the DEWA team used specialist equipment to measure key resource indicators, such as natural luminosity and tap water flow, to help evaluate what further energy saving practices could be adopted.
Ryan Sisson, Lecturer in the School of Environment and Health Sciences said, “The ongoing assessment of our physical infrastructure is an important part of the continuous improvement process, and sits alongside the education and awareness raising activities we conduct to promote environmental sustainability across campus.
“We value the support of DEWA in providing us with recommendations that can inform future strategies, which will not only improve the University’s environmental credentials, but also help its leadership to develop strategies that will results in long-term cost savings that can be invested in other priority areas.”
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