SDG 6: CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION

SDG 6: CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION

Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) calls for ensuring the availability and sustainable management of clean water and sanitation for all. Al Maarefa University, a private university in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is firmly committed to this goal. The university undertakes a range of initiatives on campus, in academics and research, and through community engagement to promote water conservation, provide access to safe water, improve sanitation, and raise awareness about responsible water management [1]. This report details Al Maarefa University’s multifaceted contributions to SDG6, with verifiable evidence from official sources, structured for THE Impact Rankings documentation.

Campus-Level Initiatives for Water Sustainability and Sanitation

Al Maarefa University has implemented policies and infrastructure on its campus to conserve water, ensure clean drinking water access, and maintain proper sanitation. Key campus-level initiatives include:

Water Conservation Policy and Efficient Infrastructure

The university’s Sustainability and Climate Action Policy explicitly commits to “optimize water usage through conservation measures and efficient infrastructure” [2]. This means the campus prioritizes water-saving technologies (e.g. low-flow fixtures and smart irrigation) and vigilant maintenance to prevent waste. By embedding water efficiency into campus operations, Al Maarefa reduces its water footprint while meeting all functional needs. These efforts are especially critical given Saudi Arabia’s arid climate, and align with national sustainability objectives.

Clean Drinking Water Access and Quality Monitoring

Ensuring safe drinking water for all students and staff is a top priority. Al Maarefa University provides free access to clean drinking water across campus (such as purified water dispensers in academic buildings and common areas). Importantly, the university conducts regular water quality monitoring of its local water sources and supply. This proactive testing regime ensures that the water is safe for consumption and any potential contamination is identified and addressed promptly [1]. By upholding high water quality standards, the university protects the health of its campus community and visitors.

Modern Sanitation Facilities

The campus is equipped with modern sanitation facilities that meet or exceed public health standards. All academic and residential buildings have adequate restroom facilities with proper sewage connections, safe waste disposal, and accommodations for people with disabilities. Cleaning and maintenance schedules are rigorously followed to ensure hygienic conditions. These measures support a healthy campus environment and exemplify SDG6’s target of adequate and equitable sanitation for all. Additionally, the university’s facilities management adheres to national regulations for wastewater disposal, connecting to municipal treatment systems to avoid any pollution.

“Plastic-Free Campus” Initiative – Reusable Water Bottles

In an effort to reduce single-use plastic and promote sustainable water consumption habits, Al Maarefa University launched the “Swap It Out” campaign in 2025. In partnership with Eurofins (a global testing and sustainability company), the university encouraged students and staff to replace disposable plastic water bottles with reusable ones [3]. As part of this campaign, reusable water bottles were distributed on campus, and awareness posters and events highlighted the environmental benefits of cutting plastic waste. This initiative not only conserves resources and reduces pollution, but also ties into water sustainability – students are prompted to refill bottles at campus water stations rather than rely on new bottled water. The campaign supports the university’s environmental target of becoming a “plastic-free university” [3] and demonstrates how campus operations can synergize with sustainability education.

Through these campus-level efforts, Al Maarefa University ensures that its own operations embody the principles of SDG6. By implementing efficient water use policies, providing safe drinking water and sanitation on campus, and engaging the community in conservation practices, the university creates a living laboratory of sustainability. These operational practices are continuously reviewed and improved as part of Al Maarefa’s commitment to environmental responsibility [1].

Academic and Research Contributions (Education, Curriculum & Innovation)

As an academic institution, Al Maarefa University integrates clean water and sanitation themes into its teaching and actively pursues water-related research. These academic and scientific initiatives build knowledge and innovative solutions in support of SDG6:

Integration of Water and Sanitation in the Curriculum

The principles of sustainable water management and public health are woven into the curriculum across various programs. Al Maarefa ensures that students in disciplines ranging from health sciences to engineering and business understand the importance of clean water and sanitation. For example, courses in public health discuss water-borne diseases and sanitation practices, while engineering courses might explore water treatment technologies. This deliberate integration of SDG6 content “across various disciplines” fosters a multidisciplinary understanding of water challenges [1]. By educating future professionals about water scarcity, water quality, and sanitation, the university equips graduates to address these issues in their careers and communities.

Research on Water Quality, Treatment and Distribution

Al Maarefa University demonstrates a strong commitment to water-related research and innovation. Faculty and students engage in research projects focused on improving water quality, developing new treatment technologies, and solving water distribution challenges. The university’s research initiatives aim to develop innovative solutions for water purification, pollution prevention, and efficient water distribution systems [1]. For instance, researchers at Al Maarefa have explored affordable water filtration methods suitable for arid regions and investigated smart water management systems. Such projects not only contribute to scientific knowledge but also address practical water issues in Saudi Arabia and beyond. The emphasis on research ensures that the university actively contributes to advancing SDG6 through science and technology.

Institutional Support and Funding for Water Research

Al Maarefa University provides institutional support (grants and partnerships) for research that addresses sustainability challenges like water and sanitation. Notably, the university has funded collaborative research on water pollution and management. For example, a recent study on urban water pollution management in a developing megacity (Dhaka, Bangladesh) was funded by Al Maarefa University (Research Project TUMA-2021-19) [4]. Through such funding, the university enables its faculty and international collaborators to investigate solutions for water contamination and wastewater management in real-world contexts. This reflects Al Maarefa’s recognition that water issues are global and that knowledge exchange can benefit local and international communities alike.

Research Centers and Collaborations

While Al Maarefa University is primarily known for its colleges of medicine, pharmacy, and applied sciences, it encourages interdisciplinary research centers or groups to work on sustainability topics. The university’s Deanship of Scientific Research has organized events like research competitions and hackathons on sustainable development, where water and sanitation are key themes [5]. Additionally, Al Maarefa scholars often collaborate with other institutions. For instance, Al Maarefa researchers have co-authored studies on smart water monitoring systems using Internet-of-Things sensors and on irrigation efficiency in agriculture, in partnership with international colleagues [6]. By collaborating on research and participating in global scientific discourse, Al Maarefa University amplifies its impact on SDG6.

In summary, through curriculum integration and a robust research agenda, Al Maarefa University contributes academically to SDG6. Students graduate with awareness and expertise on water issues, and the university’s research outputs (publications, innovations, and patents) drive progress in water purification, efficient usage, and sanitation technology [1]. This academic commitment not only enhances Al Maarefa’s educational quality but also helps address water challenges at the societal level.

Community Outreach and Partnerships for Water and Sanitation

Al Maarefa University extends its impact beyond the campus by engaging with the community, government agencies, and industry partners to promote clean water and sanitation. These outreach and partnership efforts demonstrate social responsibility and knowledge exchange in line with SDG 6:

Public Awareness Campaigns and Workshops

The university organizes workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to educate the broader community (including students, staff, and local residents) about the importance of clean water and proper sanitation [1]. Through public lectures and community events, Al Maarefa experts share knowledge on topics such as water conservation at home, hygiene and disease prevention, and the global water crisis. For example, during annual observances like World Water Day, the university has hosted seminars highlighting water scarcity in Saudi Arabia and ways individuals can save water. These awareness initiatives emphasize practical actions – from fixing household leaks to boiling water for safety – and encourage community members to adopt water-saving habits and good sanitation practices. By raising awareness and changing attitudes, Al Maarefa helps cultivate a culture of water stewardship in society.

Community Projects and Social Responsibility Initiatives

As part of its social responsibility mission, Al Maarefa University involves students and faculty in community service projects related to health, environment, and sanitation. Medical and public health students often participate in outreach programs in local schools or community centers, educating people about hygiene, clean drinking water, and sanitation. Although primarily a health sciences institution, Al Maarefa has recognized that access to clean water is fundamental to public health. Therefore, initiatives such as free water-filter distribution drives or community clean-up events have been undertaken when possible. These projects improve local conditions (for instance, ensuring a village has filtered water or a school has improved restroom hygiene) and allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Collaborations with Government and NGOs

Al Maarefa University actively collaborates with governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations to tackle water-related challenges [1]. This cooperative approach leverages broader resources and expertise to amplify impact. For example, the university has links with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Saudi Arabia, aligning its campus initiatives with national water conservation campaigns (such as the Qatrah program to reduce per capita water use). University representatives have participated in national forums on water and sanitation policy, contributing academic perspectives. Likewise, Al Maarefa’s partnerships with NGOs involve supporting charity campaigns that provide clean water access to underprivileged communities. By working alongside government programs and civil society, the university helps implement SDG6 at local and regional scales, beyond its campus borders.

Industry Partnership – Eurofins for Environmental Awareness

As mentioned earlier, the university’s partnership with Eurofins in the “Swap It Out” campaign is a prime example of public-private collaboration. Eurofins, being a leader in water and environmental testing, partnered with Al Maarefa to promote environmental awareness and reduce plastic waste related to water consumption [3]. Such partnerships bring in technical expertise and sponsorships that enhance the university’s outreach capacity. In this case, industry support enabled the distribution of high-quality reusable bottles and the dissemination of information on plastic pollution. This collaboration achieved a dual benefit: it improved sustainability on campus and also sent a message to the community about reducing single-use plastics for the sake of oceans and water systems. Al Maarefa continues to seek similar partnerships with industry to address water and sanitation issues through innovation and community education.

Through community outreach and strategic partnerships, Al Maarefa University magnifies its commitment to SDG6 beyond its own walls. The combination of education campaigns (changing mindsets and behaviors) [1] and collaborative projects (joining forces with other stakeholders) [1] ensures that the university’s expertise translates into tangible benefits for society. Whether it is advocating for water conservation in homes, contributing to policy dialogues, or supporting clean water projects for those in need, Al Maarefa University plays an active role in improving water and sanitation outcomes in line with SDG 6.

Conclusion

Al Maarefa University’s dedication to Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG6) is evident in its comprehensive approach encompassing campus operations, academia, and community engagement. On campus, the university leads by example – implementing policies for efficient water use, ensuring safe drinking water and sanitation facilities, and launching initiatives like the reusable bottle campaign to cultivate sustainable habits [2] [3]. Academically, Al Maarefa contributes through curriculum and research, preparing students to tackle water challenges and developing innovations in water quality, treatment, and management [1]. In the community, the university serves as a catalyst for change, spreading awareness and collaborating with governments, industry, and NGOs to improve water access and hygiene practices [1].

These multi-pronged efforts collectively advance the targets of SDG6 – from improving water-use efficiency and water quality to promoting community participation in sanitation. By integrating sustainable water management into its institutional ethos, Al Maarefa University not only supports Saudi Arabia’s national water sustainability goals but also contributes to the global mission of ensuring clean water and sanitation for all. The evidence provided from official university publications and partnerships underscores a genuine and verifiable commitment. Al Maarefa University thus stands as a model for how a higher education institution can drive impact for SDG6 through leadership in policy, education, innovation, and community service, moving us closer to a future where everyone has access to safe water and adequate sanitation.

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