Rapid urbanisation has turned Bangladesh into a concrete jungle, as we all know. Dhaka, in particular, suffers from air pollution, rising temperatures, and a lack of green spaces. Given this situation, Green Campus is an initiative that can offer a sustainable solution. It can improve the environment and enhance the well-being and learning experience of students.
Education institutions play a crucial role in shaping the future as well as the present for a student. Therefore, universities must adopt sustainable practices to lead the example. A green campus is not just about planting trees. Its about energy efficiency, waste reduction, renewable energy and smart resource management – things that are hardly talked about in our country.
Additionally, most private universities in our country operate within a limited space, which makes large green campuses impractical. So, how can these institutions embrace sustainability?
Pioneers of green campuses in Bangladesh
Let’s first get to know about the universities that took the first step toward the green campus initiative. Daffodil International University has been promoting an eco-friendly, green, clean, safe and healthy campus since the beginning. The university’s main campus spans over 125 acres and is committed to sustainability. On the other hand, BRAC University is one of the first environmentally friendly and sustainable city campuses in Bangladesh, including modern technologies, cross ventilation and hybrid thermal management systems.
Challenges for Bangladeshi universities
Most private universities in Bangladesh lack the large open spaces that traditional green campuses require. Instead, they run in multi-storey buildings with limited land available for greenery. However, a green campus is not defined by size but by its approach to sustainability. Even with limited space, it is possible for universities to adopt an eco-friendly initiative that will contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment. Here are some practical and space-efficient solutions that can help:
- Rooftop garden and vertical greenery –
Just because the ground space is limited doesn’t mean universities cannot create greenery. Rooftop gardens can provide shade, reduce indoor temperature and improve the air quality of university campuses. Additionally, vertical gardens are a modern approach on buildings that can also provide greenery as well as absorb pollution, provide insulation and enhance the beauty of the campus. This way the students can inhale fresh oxygen, and the classrooms will be much cooler.
- Solar panels for renewable energy –
Electricity is a major part of a university, as it is needed to operate almost everything. Bangladesh has plenty of sunlight. Which makes solar power an excellent energy source. It might be a little expensive, but private universities should be able to afford it. Solar panels will generate electricity for classrooms, libraries and common areas. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also lowers bills.
- Rainwater harvesting –
Water scarcity is a growing issue in our country. To create a sustainable green campus, universities will include vegetation and greenery. Rain catchers and chains will reach these within the building. Moreover, the harvested water can also be used for gardening, sanitation and cleaning purposes. Additionally, water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow taps and dual-flushing toilets can help reduce wastage.
- Energy-efficient buildings, smart lighting and recycling programmes –
To reduce energy consumption, universities can focus on energy-efficient designs. This can include LED lights or motion sensor lighting in classrooms. On the other hand, designing the building using natural ventilation can minimise the usage of air conditioning. Furthermore, to reduce waste, separate bins can be used for recycling. This means composting areas for organic waste and policies for reduced plastic use. In the cafeteria. Reusable containers or plates and biodegradable packaging should be used.
- Student-led green initiatives and awareness campaigns –
Universities should empower students to take part in eco-friendly activities such as organising tree-planting events and running sustainability awareness campaigns. And establishing environmental clubs to promote green initiatives. By engaging students, universities can create a culture of sustainability that extends beyond the campus.
Bangladesh’s universities must embrace sustainability, not just as a trend but as a necessity. Daffodil International University and Green University of Bangladesh have already taken the first steps, and it is time for others to follow. Even within limited spaces, institutions can make a significant impact through solar energy, rooftop gardens, waste management and eco-friendly policies.
On this World Sustainable Energy Day, let us commit to building greener campuses, inspiring students to become future leaders in sustainability. The time to act is now. Our environment, our future and our students depend on it.