CCDC POLICY ON WATER CONSERVATION, REUSE, AND SUSTAINABLE WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

1. Policy Statement

Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) is committed to the responsible and sustainable management of water resources through water conservation, rainwater harvesting and reuse, efficient water utilization, responsible groundwater extraction, and the preservation of natural water absorption areas. The College shall integrate water-conscious practices into campus infrastructure, facilities management, and daily operations to minimize water wastage, reduce dependence on groundwater, and promote environmental sustainability.

2. Objectives

This policy aims to:

1. Promote the efficient and responsible use of water across the campus.
2. Maximize rainwater collection and reuse for appropriate non-potable purposes.
3. Reduce water wastage through water-efficient fixtures, regular inspections, and timely repairs.
4. Promote the sustainable use of groundwater through responsible extraction and monitoring.
5. Maintain water quality and ensure that water intended for drinking complies with applicable standards.
6. Preserve permeable ground areas to support rainwater infiltration, groundwater recharge, and water management.
7. Establish monitoring and documentation practices to assess water use and improve conservation measures.

3. Scope and Coverage

This policy applies to all CCDC buildings, facilities, water supply systems, campus grounds, and water-related operations. It covers students, faculty, administrative and support personnel, concessionaires, contractors, visitors, and other campus stakeholders involved in or affected by the use and management of water resources.

4. Policy Guidelines

4.1. Rainwater Harvesting and Reuse

CCDC shall maintain and enhance rainwater harvesting systems installed in campus buildings. Roof catchment areas, gutters, downspouts, pipelines, and designated storage tanks shall be maintained to facilitate the collection and storage of rainwater.

Harvested rainwater shall be prioritized for appropriate non-potable uses, including:

• Toilet flushing;
• Landscape irrigation and plant watering;
• Cleaning of school facilities and service areas; and
• Other approved non-potable applications.

Stored rainwater, including water collected in barrels inside comfort rooms, may be used for manual toilet flushing when necessary. Rainwater intended for non-potable use shall not be used for drinking or other potable applications unless it has undergone appropriate treatment and verification in accordance with applicable standards.

4.2. Water Conservation and Efficient Facilities

The College shall promote water efficiency through the installation, use, and maintenance of water-saving fixtures, including low-flush water closets, waterless urinals, and water-efficient washbasins or wastafels.

Regular inspection and preventive maintenance of plumbing systems shall be conducted to identify leaks, defective fixtures, and other sources of water loss. Necessary repairs shall be undertaken promptly to minimize wastage and maintain the efficient operation of water facilities.

All campus stakeholders shall be encouraged to practice responsible water use and report leaks or other water-related concerns to the appropriate office.

4.3. Sustainable Groundwater Extraction

CCDC shall manage its deep well as a source of water for domestic and operational requirements, taking into account campus demand, rainfall conditions, and the availability of harvested rainwater.

Groundwater extraction shall be managed responsibly to avoid unnecessary use and support the long-term availability of the resource. The College shall comply with applicable permits, regulatory requirements, and water resource management standards.

Where feasible, records of groundwater extraction shall be maintained to support the assessment of water consumption, identify usage patterns, and guide conservation measures.

4.4. Water Quality Monitoring and Potability

CCDC shall implement appropriate water quality monitoring procedures for its water supply systems. The Pollution Control Officer or other designated personnel shall coordinate the collection and submission of water samples for laboratory analysis and potability assessment, as required by applicable regulations.

Water intended for drinking shall be treated, monitored, and verified to comply with applicable drinking water quality standards. Where test results indicate non-compliance, appropriate corrective measures shall be undertaken before the affected source is used for drinking.

4.5. Preservation of Natural Water Absorption Areas

The College shall maintain designated permeable ground areas to support rainwater infiltration, reduce surface runoff, and promote natural groundwater recharge.

Campus planning, landscaping, and infrastructure development shall consider the preservation of suitable unpaved surfaces and natural drainage pathways. Any proposed alteration of designated water absorption areas shall consider its potential effects on stormwater management, soil infiltration, and campus environmental sustainability.

4.6. Monitoring, Measurement, and Documentation

CCDC shall promote the systematic monitoring and documentation of its water conservation and management initiatives. Where applicable and feasible, records shall include:

• Volume of rainwater collected and reused;
• Volume of groundwater extracted and total water consumption;
• Number and condition of water-efficient fixtures;
• Water leaks identified and repaired;
• Results of water quality tests;
• Area of designated permeable ground surfaces; and
• Conservation measures implemented and their observed outcomes.

The designated office or personnel shall periodically review available records to assess performance, identify areas for improvement, and recommend appropriate water conservation measures.

4.7. Information and Stakeholder Participation

CCDC shall promote awareness of water conservation and responsible water use among students, employees, concessionaires, contractors, and visitors. Stakeholders shall be encouraged to avoid unnecessary water consumption, report leaks, use water facilities properly, and support institutional initiatives for sustainable water resource management.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

The designated campus facilities and maintenance personnel shall maintain water supply, rainwater harvesting, plumbing, and drainage infrastructure. The Pollution Control Officer or designated personnel shall coordinate water quality monitoring and related documentation. Relevant administrative offices shall support the implementation, monitoring, and review of this policy within their respective responsibilities.

All members of the CCDC community shall cooperate in conserving water, preventing wastage, and reporting observed problems involving campus water systems.

6. Policy Review and Continuous Improvement

CCDC shall periodically review this policy and its implementation to identify opportunities for improving water efficiency, rainwater reuse, groundwater management, and stormwater control. Monitoring results, infrastructure conditions, applicable regulatory requirements, and emerging sustainability practices shall inform the adoption of appropriate improvements.

7. Effectivity

This policy shall take effect upon approval by the authorized College authority and shall remain in force until amended or superseded by a subsequent issuance.