CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Situated in the heart of the fast-growing city of Ahmedabad, the Central Campus of Ahmedabad University is a thriving hub of biodiversity and sustainable innovation. Nestled within an urban environment, the campus stands as an oasis of greenery, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including 64 bird species, 22 butterfly species, and a host of amphibians and mammals.
The ‘Platinum Rating’ is the highest accolade conferred by the Indian Green Building Council, acknowledging campuses that demonstrate exceptional sustainability standards. This recognition reflects Ahmedabad University’s focus on sustainability, which is centred on reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and promoting eco-friendly practices across the campus.
Ahmedabad University’s sustainability initiatives include the installation of 615 kW of rooftop solar plant, generating 2.5 MW of solar power daily. The Arboretum project, initiated in 2018, continues to enhance the city’s vital ‘green lungs’ with over 800 trees added to bring the total to more than 1500 trees in the Central Campus.
The University is committed to creating a zero-discharge campus. As part of this effort, all wastewater generated in the Central Campus is treated in a state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant. The recycled water is then reused for the HVAC system, flushing, and irrigation for campus gardens. In addition, the University’s water management strategy includes advanced rainwater harvesting systems, featuring interconnected recharge wells. These wells are linked to an amphitheatre that also functions as a 2-lakh-litre holding tank for excess water during heavy rainfall, ensuring optimal water conservation. Collectively, these initiatives significantly reduce the campus’s dependence on municipal water and contribute to sustainable resource management.
“Our vision of sustainability goes beyond the operational—it is integral to our teaching, research, and community engagement,” said Professor Pankaj Chandra, Vice Chancellor of Ahmedabad University. “The Green Building Certification with a ‘Platinum Rating’ reflects our commitment to building a sustainable and equitable world, driven by the actions of our students, faculty, and staff.”