18th Sept 2024 Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India 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.
In recognition of Ahmedabad University’s focus on sustainable practices and climate action, the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) has conferred the prestigious ‘Platinum Rating’ while certifying it as a IGBC Green Campus. This recognition places Ahmedabad University among a select group of universities setting benchmarks for sustainability and climate action.
The Stepwell (Amphitheatre) at Ahmedabad University’s central campus doubles up as a holding tank of rainwater during the monsoons, thus reducing reliance on municipal water and contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions
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 amphitheater 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.”
Buildings across campus are designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating double-glazed windows, insulation on top slab, maintaining indoor quality as per ASHRAE standards, LED lighting, and LEED-certified construction for upcoming projects. Waste management is also a priority, with initiatives such as student-led recycling, e-waste collection, and organic waste conversion.
“We are deeply honoured to receive Green Building Certification with ‘Platinum Rating’, which solidifies our dedication to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship,” said Col Sanjay Gokhale (Retd), Registrar of Ahmedabad University. “The recognition comes at a time when the University has also improved its standing in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024, further affirming the global relevance of our sustainability efforts. Both accomplishments highlight our commitment to shaping a sustainable future.”
These recognitions reinforce Ahmedabad University’s leadership in climate action and sustainability, ensuring a lasting positive impact on the environment and setting an example for institutions globally.