SDG 14 - Life Below Water

Ilma University targeted the important SDG 14 Life Below Water through its research work in this category. There was energy-efficient research conducted to establish underwater sensor networks that took the lead in making it one of its kind. This much-appreciated publication was put under the category of W in the reputed journal.

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Publications


Policies

AIM
This policy is aimed at recognizing University’s commitment towards environment sustainability and minimizing the use of non-biodegradable plastic products on campus. Ilma University fulfills the corporate responsibility by employing the best practices related to the social and environmental well being of the society.

Purpose of Policy
Use of plastic products is becoming a serious threat to the global environment. There are different kind of plastic products being used including plastic bags, single-use plastic for food services and plastic bottles. Ilma University has the legacy of promoting environment friendly initiatives. Therefore, University under this policy commits to reduce the plastic usage to the minimum possible level.

Scope of Policy
The policy will be applied to all students, staff, 3rd party staff and faculty of the University. Policy will also be applied to all outsourced activities.

Policy Statement
Develop and implement an effective management plan to decrease the use and waste of plastic bags.
1. Encourage the use of biodegradable single-use plastic bags, recycled material, paper, or textiles as alternatives to single-use plastic bags.
2. Encourage use of non-disposable products.
3. Encourage new approaches to recycle plastic trash.
4. Encourage community-based efforts to reduce plastic waste in the environment.
5. In order to ensure that this policy is implemented successfully, the administration department must develop effective indicators to track and measure the reduction of plastic usage.
6. Developed indicators must be recorded and assessed on monthly basis.
7. Whenever possible, follow this policy in procurement activities as well.
8. A comprehensive report on the initiatives taken, policy implementations and its impact will be presented to the senior management at the end of every year.

Definitions
single-use plastic: Its includes all products that are made wholly or partly of plastic and are typically intended to be used just once and/or for a short period of time before being disposed off.
Biodegradable plastics: that can be decomposed by the action of living organisms, usually microbes, into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. 


Policy Statement:
ILMA University is committed to responsible and sustainable sourcing of food products from aquatic ecosystems to promote environmental conservation, support ethical practices, and ensure the availability of quality seafood products. This policy outlines the principles and guidelines to be followed in the procurement and utilization of seafood and related products across our campus facilities.

Policy Guidelines:

Sustainable Seafood Sourcing:
ILMA University will prioritize the procurement of seafood products that are certified as sustainable by recognized certification bodies, such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC).

Local Sourcing:

Whenever feasible, the university will source seafood from local and regional suppliers to support local economies and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.


Traceability:

We will ensure that all seafood products come with proper traceability and documentation to verify their source, origin, and sustainability certification.

Menu and Vendor Selection:

ILMA University campus dining facilities will work with vendors who are committed to sustainable seafood sourcing and ethical fishing practices.

Seasonal Variability:

Menus will be adjusted to accommodate seasonal variability in seafood availability, thereby supporting the natural replenishment of aquatic ecosystems.

Education and Awareness:

The university will actively engage in educational initiatives to raise awareness among students, staff, and faculty about the importance of sustainable seafood choices.

Waste Reduction:

Efforts will be made to minimize food waste by managing portion sizes and implementing responsible food preparation practices.

Continuous Improvement:

ILMA University will regularly review and update this policy to align with the latest sustainability standards and best practices in seafood sourcing.

Responsibility and Compliance:

All campus dining facilities, vendors, and suppliers are responsible for adhering to this policy and actively participating in efforts to support sustainable seafood practices.

ILMA University is dedicated to promoting responsible sourcing and consumption of seafood products to safeguard aquatic ecosystems, support ethical fishing practices, and ensure a healthier and more sustainable environment for all members of our community. We believe that this policy reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical practices.



Policy Scope
This policy applies to all procurement activities conducted by ILMA University, including the acquisition of food, supplies, materials, and services. It is designed to ensure that procurement processes align with Ilma University’s commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility, and ethical practices.

Policy Statement
ILMA University is committed to sustainable procurement practices that support environmental and social responsibility. The University seeks to source products that minimize environmental impact, adhere to ethical labor standards, and contribute to local community well-being. This includes ensuring that food sourced from aquatic ecosystems is sustainably harvested, minimizing waste, and reducing the University’s carbon footprint. The policy mandates that all suppliers and vendors meet sustainability standards that align with Ilma University’s values.

Aims and Objectives

Sustainable Sourcing
Ensure that all food and products procured by ILMA University come from suppliers who follow sustainable and ethical practices, focusing on local and environmentally friendly sources where possible. This includes farm-sourced, fresh foods and fish, verified for sustainable practices, to reduce environmental impact and support local communities.

Sustainable Aquatic Harvesting
Source food products, particularly fish and other aquatic foods, from suppliers who utilize sustainable harvesting methods to prevent overfishing, promote biodiversity, and protect aquatic ecosystems. All seafood provided on campus must meet sustainable certification standards.

Support for Local and Organic Suppliers
Prioritize local and organic suppliers whenever feasible to reduce transportation emissions, support the local economy, and offer fresher, less processed foods to the campus community.

Resource Conservation
Minimize waste and promote the use of eco-friendly products by choosing suppliers who prioritize recyclable or biodegradable packaging, and encourage the reuse of materials wherever possible.

Ethical Labor Standards
Work only with vendors and suppliers who adhere to fair labor practices, supporting worker rights and ethical labor conditions.

Definitions

Sustainable Sourcing
The process of obtaining products in a way that minimizes environmental impact, supports local economies, and ensures the product lifecycle aligns with ethical and sustainable practices.

Sustainable Harvesting
Harvesting practices that maintain the long-term health and biodiversity of ecosystems by preventing overexploitation, promoting sustainable yields, and protecting vulnerable species.

Farm-Sourced
Food items, particularly fish, and produce that are cultivated or grown in controlled environments to ensure sustainability, reduce environmental impact, and promote freshness.

Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed every two years to ensure it meets evolving sustainability standards, incorporates advancements in sustainable practices, and aligns with the University’s goals for environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing. Any necessary revisions will be made in consultation with relevant stakeholders to maintain ILMA University’s commitment to sustainable and ethical procurement practices.


ILMA University is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all members of its community, recognizing the importance of access to clean and safe water for drinking, sanitation, and other essential needs. This policy outlines the university’s standards and guidelines for maintaining high water quality across campus facilities and grounds, aligned with national and international best practices.

Objectives
The primary objectives of this policy are to:

  • Ensure that all water sources on campus meet health and safety standards.
  • Regularly Monitor and assess water quality to prevent contamination.
  • Educate the university community about responsible water use and safety practices.

Water Quality Standards

  • Compliance With National Standards: ILMA University adheres to the water quality standards set forth by national regulatory authorities, ensuring all drinking water and water for general use meets or exceeds these benchmarks.

  • Testing And Monitoring: The university conducts regular testing of water sources for microbial, chemical, and physical contaminants. Water quality assessments are performed by certified laboratories to maintain accuracy and accountability.

  • Maintenance Of Water Facilities: The university maintains all water-related infrastructure, including filtration systems, plumbing, and storage facilities, to prevent contamination and ensure consistent water quality.

Guidelines for Implementation

  • Routine Water Testing: Water from drinking fountains, kitchens, and other primary sources is tested at least quarterly. Any deviations from set standards are addressed immediately to protect the health of the university community.

  • Public Information And Transparency: ILMA University provides water quality reports that are accessible to students, staff, and faculty. Reports are updated annually, highlighting any improvements or changes to water systems and quality.

  • Emergency Protocols: In the event of water contamination or infrastructure failure, the university has emergency response protocols to provide alternative water sources and communicate with the campus community promptly.

Conservation and Education Initiatives

  • Promoting Water Conservation: ILMA University encourages responsible water usage through awareness campaigns and conservation initiatives. This includes installing water-saving devices and encouraging water-efficient practices across campus.

  • Educational Programs: Regular workshops and informational sessions on water safety, quality, and conservation are organized for students, faculty, and staff, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.

By implementing these initiatives, ILMA University ensures a safe and sustainable water environment, reinforcing its commitment to health, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Research Publications



Title Publications Partnerships Journal Name Articles
Influence of Technical Efficiency and Globalization on Sustainable Resources Management: Evidence From South Asian Countries. Hebei Finance University, China; Hebei Finance University, PR China Resources Policy Article Link
Unleashing the Dynamic Impact of the Tourism Industry on Energy Consumption, Economic Output, and Environmental Quality in China: a Way Forward Towards Environmental Sustainability Shandong University, China; CAREC Institute Urumqi, China; Beijing Institute of Technology, China Journal of Cleaner Production Article Link
Mapping and Visualizing of Research Output on Waste Management and Green Technology: a Bibliometric Review of Literature Xuzhou University of Technology, China; Institute of Business Management, Pakistan Waste Management and Research Article Link
Green Economy and Food Security in Africa Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), Malaysia; University of Cape Coast, Ghana; Nanchang Institute of Technology, China; Covenant University, Nigeria Environment, Development and Sustainability Article Link

Events and Projects

Ilma University Students Led a Beach Cleaning and Environment Protection Day at Sea View, Showcasing Their Commitment to Sustainability. About 20 Students Collected Waste From the Beach to Reduce Ocean Pollution and Promote Recycling and Waste Management. This Initiative Served as Both an Educational Opportunity and a Beautification Effort, Emphasizing the Importance of Protecting Marine Life and Coastal Ecosystems. The Students Aimed to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) Such as SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production. Ilma University Remains Dedicated to Empowering Students to Be Proactive Agents of Change in Addressing Environmental Challenges.


ILMA University Held a Seminar Ocean Acidification and Climate Change: Impacts on Marine Life and Biodiversity, Attended by Over 110 Participants, Including Faculty, Students, and Environmental Advocates. A Marine Biology Expert Highlighted the Alarming 30% Decline in Ocean PH Levels Since the Industrial Revolution, Which Threatens Marine Ecosystems, Including Coral Reefs That Support 25% of Marine Species. Projections Indicate That 70-90% of These Reefs Could Disappear by 2050. Interactive Sessions Facilitated Discussions on Policies and Strategies for Combating Biodiversity Lossa. The Seminar Concluded With a Call to Action for Participants to Advocate for Ocean Health in Their Communities, Reflecting Ilma University's Commitment to Environmental Awareness and Education.


ILMA University Hosted a Seminar The Economics of Healthy Oceans: Valuing Marine Ecosystem Services, Attracting Over 100 Participants, Including the Vice Chancellor, Deans, Faculty, Students, and Researchers. The Seminar Emphasized That Marine Ecosystem Services Contribute Approximately $2.5 Trillion Annually to the Global Economy, Focusing on Fisheries, Coastal Protection From Mangroves, and the Economic Benefits of Marine Tourism. Discussions Highlighted the Need for Sustainable Management Practices to Protect Marine Ecosystems and Encouraged Collaboration Among Attendees to Advocate for Effective Conservation Policies.