SDG 15 - Life on Land

Ilma University moved ahead to target the SDG 15 Life on Land in its prominent publications. There were notable research papers written in this SDG category that showcased the immense work being undertaken in this area. The significant topics ranged from sustainable organic farming, medical tourism, CO2 emissions, transport, tourism development, ecological sustainability to service quality. This proved that this SDG was much prioritized and put on a scale to be evaluated.

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Publications


Policies

ILMA University Recognizes Its Responsibility for the Provision of Healthy and Sustainable Food to Our Staff, Students, and Visitors From the Campus. This Policy Also Ensures the Availability of Vegetarian and Vegan Diet Options. This Policy Sets Out the University’s Intentions to Minimize the Impact of Its Food Related Operations on the Environment and to Promote Sustainable Practices and Consumption.

AIM
• Availability of Food Choices for All on Campus, Including Vegetarian and Vegan Food.
• Ensure the Availability Affordable Food Options in the Cafeteria(S).
• Reduce the Consumption of Dairy Products.
• Promote the Consumption of More Plant-based Foods.
• Reduce Food Wastage.
• Source Food and Other Products Locally Where Possible.
• Communicate the Commitment to Sustainable Food to Customers, Staff and Suppliers Our Commitment to Serving Sustainable Food.
• Do Not Sell Any Single Use Plastic Bottles and Reduce the Use of All Plastic Packaging.
• Continue to Implement Forward Thinking Sustainability Best Practices.

Objectives
• Monitor Performance Against Policy Aims, Including by Setting Sustainable Food Targets, and Reporting Regularly on Performance Against These.
• Examine This Sustainable Food Policy Bi-annually (Every Other Year) and Amend Targets.
• Work With Suppliers to Progress Our Sustainability Agenda Including Incorporating the Sustainable.
• Food Policy as Part of the Contract Documentation for All Preferred Food Suppliers and Contracted Caterers.
• Engage With Other Operators on University Sites Including Outside Caterers and Departments Not Provided for by the University Cafeteria(S), to Encourage Adoption of This Policy and Its Objectives.

Scope of the Policy
• This Policy applies to the cafeteria(s) and other food outlets in departments and campuses of the University.
• All suppliers will be expected to assist the University in meeting the Sustainable Food Policy.
• The Policy applies to all aspects of sustainable food, including procurement, preparation, provision, food waste and waste management and education.

Roles and responsibilities
• The University Has a Responsibility to Procure Food Sustainably by Its Environmental Sustainability Vision, Policy and Strategy.
• The Head(S) of Administration Has Overall Responsibility for the Implementation of This Policy in All Departments and Campuses.
• Responsibility for Application of the Principles and Practical Delivery of This Policy Within the Departments and Campuses.

Monitoring

Targets
• To Reduce Carbon Emissions From Food Year on Year, Scaled to the Size of the Business
• For Plant-based Meals to Make Up an Increasing Proportion of the Offer Year on Year.

Key Performance Indicators
• Carbon Emissions Per Kilo of Food Procured (Kgs of Carbon Per Kg of Food Procured).
• Carbon Emissions From Food Per Rupee Revenue.
• Carbon Emissions From Food Per Transaction.
• Kilograms of Meat and Dairy Purchased as a Proportion of Total Food Purchased.
• Proportion of Plant-based Meals Served.
• Kilograms of Food Waste Generated.
• Number of Single Use Takeaway Disposables Used.
• Life Cycle Impact Per Kilo of Food Purchased (Specifically Carbon and Where Possible Land Use, Water Use, and Other Environmental Metrics).

Implementation
The Sustainable Food Policy is supported by an action plan outlining the specific actions and areas of focus that will help achieve our aims and objectives. See overleaf for a copy of the Sustainable Food Action Plan.

Sustainable Food Action Plan 2023

Communication and engagement
• Increase Awareness of This Sustainable Food Policy – Through Newsletters, Websites and Intranets, and Other University Publications. Encourage Its Adoption by Outside Caterers, Departments, and Colleges as Well.
• Participate in University-wide Campaigns and Other Events by Promoting Healthy and Sustainable Food, Including Vegan Options.
• Include a Requirement for Adherence to This Policy in All New and Retendered Projects (Including New Cafeteria(S) and Supplier Contracts).
• Engaging With Suppliers to Better Understand Their Supply Chains and to Support Our Suppliers in Their Own Sustainable Procurement of Food Items.
• Provide Cafeteria and Other Relevant Staff With Training About Sustainable Food and the Objectives and Reasons for the Policy.
• Share the Policy and Its Results With External Stakeholders Through Awards Entries, Articles and Other Promotional Activities.

Fairly Traded Products
• Ensure That All of Our Products Are Fairly Traded Throughout Their Supply Chains.

Fruit and Vegetables
• Aim to Develop Menus that make Use of Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables, Where Practically Possible.
• Source Fruit and Vegetables From Local Suppliers Where Possible.
• Where Possible Procure Fruit and Vegetables From Low Impact Production Systems.
• Consider the Feasibility of Growing Fruit and Vegetables on the University Estate. Herbs Would Be Our First Commitment, Followed by Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables That Can Be Incorporated Into Menus Across the University.

Food Waste
• Aim to Achieve a Significant Reduction in Waste in All Cafeteria Operations.
• Monitor Food Waste Records to Assess Portion Size and Therefore Implement Portion Control Sizes to Avoid Unnecessary Waste.

Plastics and Packaging
• Eliminate the Use of Non-recyclable Plastics and Reduce the Use of All Single Use Disposable Items. Using Compostable Options Where This is Impossible.
• Encourage Our Suppliers to Go Plastic-free.
• Increase Awareness That We Have Moved Away From single-use non-recyclable Plastic in the Cafes.
• We Will Continue Not to Sell Single Use Plastic Bottles. In Recognition of the Demand for ‘To Go’
Water and plastic Options Such as Cans, Glass, or Compostable Bottles Will Be Sold.

Energy
• Any New or Replacement Cooking/catering Equipment Should Seek to Provide Efficiencies in Energy Consumption.
• Conduct Energy Audits to Identify Ways to Reduce Consumption Within Cafeteria(S).
• Cafeteria Staff to Be Given Energy Saving Training.

Water
Work to Reduce the Amount of Water Used in the Kitchen.

Products
Eco-friendly Cleaners and Detergents Will Be Introduced to Reduce Environmental Impact.

Research
Work With the Research Department to Carry Out Research Linked to Food Sustainability, for Improving Monitoring, Performance and Impacts Over Time.


AIM

ILMA University Is Committed To Promoting Global Sustainability And Environmental Protection Through The Adoption Of Best Practices In Managing Waste. This Policy Outlines The Steps Taken By The University To Dispose Of Waste In A Manner That Minimizes Its Environmental Impact.

Scope of Policy
This Policy Applies To All Students, Staff, Third-Party Staff, Faculty, And Any Outsourced Activities Associated With The University. It Covers All Operations And Processes Within The University That Involve Materials That Require Special Handling For Safe Disposal.

Policy Statement

  • The Administration Department Is Responsible For Ensuring That All Waste Disposal Procedures Adhere To The Guidelines And Regulations Set By The Sindh Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
  • Waste Materials Must Not Be Discharged Into The Land, Surface Areas, Green Spaces, Or Rainwater Drainage Systems.
  • Only Appropriate Channels And Methods Must Be Used For The Disposal Of These Materials, Ensuring Minimal Risk To The Environment And Public Health.
  • All Waste Containing Harmful Materials Must Be Disposed Of Through The Municipal Waste Disposal Network, In Compliance With Relevant Regulations.
  • The Administration Department Will Regularly Measure And Document The Volume Of Landfill And Recyclable Waste Produced, Maintaining Detailed Records To Ensure Effective Tracking And Monitoring.
  • An Annual Waste Disposal Report Will Be Presented To Senior Management, Detailing Waste Management Practices, Challenges, And Areas For Improvement.
  • Continuous Efforts Will Be Made To Improve Waste Disposal And Recycling Procedures, Focusing On Minimizing Environmental Impact And Maximizing Sustainability.

Actions to be Taken

  • Training and Awareness: All Staff, Students, And Contractors Will Receive Training On The Proper Handling, Storage, And Disposal Of Materials Requiring Special Attention.
  • Identification and Segregation: Waste Materials Will Be Clearly Identified Through Labels And Warning Signs.
  • Proper Storage: Waste Materials Will Be Stored In Designated, Secure Areas That Meet Safety And Environmental Guidelines.
  • Contracting Certified Disposal Companies: The University Will Engage Certified And Licensed Disposal Companies.
  • Routine Inspections and Audits: The Administration Department Will Conduct Regular Inspections And Audits To Ensure Compliance.
  • Record-Keeping and Reporting: A Detailed Record Of All Waste Generated, Stored, And Disposed Of Will Be Maintained.
  • Emergency Response Plan: An Emergency Response Plan Will Be In Place To Address Material Spills Or Accidents.
  • Continuous Improvement: Innovative Solutions To Reduce Waste Generation Will Be Explored.

Definition
Waste Requiring Special Handling Includes Materials That Are Ignitable, Reactive, Or Toxic, Posing Risks To Health And The Environment.

By Implementing This Policy And Taking The Outlined Actions, ILMA University Aims To Ensure That Waste Is Managed Responsibly, Contributing To The Protection Of The Environment And The Well-Being Of The University Community.


AIM
The goal of this policy is to guarantee that the institution runs in a sustainable way by reducing water usage while also being environmentally conscious. This policy helps the institution fulfil its obligations and goals in terms of water consumption. This policy provides a framework for the institution to develop water management solutions.

Policy Statement
Water Conservation
• Implement water-saving strategies and procedures to reduce water use.
• Water use must be continuously monitored to find out any possibility of reduction in consumption.
• Ensure that all students, faculty and staff are aware and follow the policies to reduce water consumption.
• Encourage research and innovation related to water conservation.
• Regular maintenance of Water pipeline must be performed.
• Conduct off campus water conservation awareness programs and workshops to educate the community.
• Collaborate with KWSB (Karachi Water & Sewerage Board) & Cantonment board and other relevant authority in their water conservation initiatives to foster the sustainability of society.
• Plan Incorporate water-conserving fixtures, processes and equipment in new renovations and buildings.
• Follow standards and policies of water conservation provided by SBCA (Sindh Building Control Authority), KWSB, National Water Policy, SEPA(Sindh Environmental Protection Agency) and National Conservation Strategy of Pakistan
• Keep tracking and measuring the consumption of water within campus.
• Drought intolerant plants must be planted in the garden areas of the campus.
• Water conservation related guideline must be placed near every water outlets.

Water Systems, Treatment and Reuse
• Install separated pipe lines for sewerage, rainwater and main water line. Lines must be separated with standard distance properly so that there is no chance of water getting contaminated.
• Pvc pipes must be used to avoid any corrosion and bacterial inflow into the water lines.
• Water treatment plants and equipment must be in place to treat the wastewater of the campus.
• Recycled water must be used to water the plants and irrigation within and around the campus. Also Consider off- campus supply of recycled water, whenever possible.

Drinking Water
• Filtration plants must be in place to ensure the availability of clean drinking water for students, faculty, staff and visitors.
• Cool water dispensers must be installed at every floor of the campus.

Scope of Policy
This policy encompass all water consumption related activities within the campus. This policy also recognize university’s responsibility to contribute to the local and regional sustainability by spreading awareness related to water conservation.

Definitions
Water Conservation is the practice of using water efficiently to reduce unnecessary water usage.


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 Kinds 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, the University Under This Policy Commits to Reducing 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 the 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. 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
It 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 Before Being Disposed Of.

Biodegradable Plastics
They can Be Decomposed by the Action of Living Organisms, Usually Microbes, Into Water, Carbon Dioxide, and Biomass. 


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
Towards the Dream of Go Green: an Empirical Importance of Green Innovation and Financial Depth for Environmental Neutrality in World's Top 10 Greenest Economies University of Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan; American University in the Emirates (AUE), United Arab Emirates; Great Lakes Institute of Management, India Technological Forecasting and Social Change Link
Determinants of Environmental Quality in India: Evidence Using the Bootstrapped ARDL Model With Structural Breaks North South University, Dhaka-1229, Bangladesh; Universidad Espíritu Santo, Ecuador; The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan Environmental Science and Pollution Research Link
Towards Environmental Sustainability in E−7 Countries: Assessing the Roles of Natural Resources, Economic Growth, Country Risk, and Energy Transition Shandong University of Technology, China; Lyon Catholic University, Lyon, France; Universidad Espíritu Santo, Ecuador Resources Policy Link
Achieving Operational Resilience Through Kaizen Practice: a Case in a Commercial Livestock Farm in Nigeria Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria; Department of Business Management, College of Management and Social Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria; Department of Business Administration, ILMA University, Karachi, Pakistan; University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK TQM Journal Link
Greening Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Economies: Assessing the Impact of Electricity Consumption, Natural Resources, and Renewable Energy on Environmental Footprint Hainan University, China; University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan; Cyprus International University, Turkey Natural Resources Forum Link
Land Resource Management and Sustainable Development: Evidence From China's Regional Data Sichuan University Jinjiang College, PR China; Kunming University of Science and Technology, China; Nature Reserve Projects and Wild Fauna and Flora Conservation Center of Hebei Province, PR China Resources Policy Link
Relating Biogas Technology and Environmental Impact Assessment: a Roadmap Towards Clean Energy for Environmental Sustainability North China Electric Power University, China; Leshan Normal University, China Environmental Science and Pollution Research Link
Assessing the Supply Chain Management of Waste-to-energy on Green Circular Economy in China: an Empirical Study Dongguan City University, China; Government College University of Faisalabad, Pakistan Environmental Science and Pollution Research Link
Investigating the Impact of Environmental Governance, Green Innovation, and Renewable Energy on Trade-adjusted Material Footprint in G20 Countries University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Lebanese American University, Lebanon; Fudan University, China Resources Policy 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 Link
Does Tourism Promote Green Growth? A Panel Data Analysis Hunan University, China; University of Business and Technology, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia Environment, Development and Sustainability 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 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.