6.3.5 Water Conscious Planting
Teerthanker Mahaveer University actively promotes water-conscious planting under SDG 6.3.5 by prioritizing native, drought-resistant species, implementing sprinkling irrigation, and scheduling plantation drives during monsoons. Date palm trees are model examples of water-conscious and drought-resistant species that align strongly with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) through sustainable water use, soil conservation, and climate adaptation benefits.
Various studies show that its deep and extensive roots allows groundwater access, which indicates high water use efficiency and drought adaptability conserve upper soil moisture. It thrive in saline, sandy soils and tolerates heat and limited irrigation, which directly reduces irrigation frequency. Date palm consumes 40-50% less irrigation. Various researches also reveals that they absorb significant CO2 and store more carbon than other trees due to large biomass. These measures optimize water use, enhance campus biodiversity, and have helped reduce irrigation water demand by over 20%, supporting sustainable landscape management.
Drought Resilience
Water-Concious Plant
Drought-Tolerant Plants
Landscaping Near Jain Temple
As far as environmental impact is concerned, these water-conscious plants reduce soil salinity, combats with local temperature; aids land restoration and urban cooling.
The University organizes workshops, seminar and education campaigns to promote water-efficient practices in landscaping. By involving the University community in sustainability initiatives towards TMU promotes a sense if ownership and encourages everyone to contribute to water conservation efforts.
Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), Moradabad is dedicated to fostering a green, healthy, and eco-conscious campus environment. As part of this vision, the University has implemented an ambitious and well-designed landscaping and plantation scheme, transforming the campus into a lush and vibrant green space.
Over the past five years, TMU has made remarkable progress in the development of aesthetically pleasing landscapes, maintenance of green lawns, and large-scale tree plantation drives—demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability and the well-being of the academic community.
Landscaping
The University’s campus planning integrates landscaping, with beautifully maintained:
- Lawns and green belts near academic blocks and administrative buildings.
- Roadside plantations and tree-lined avenues.
- Gardens and recreational green zones that promote tranquility and ecological balance.
The landscaping plan is not merely for beautification it also contributes to temperature regulation, air purification, and soil conservation within the University premises. Regular maintenance by dedicated horticultural staff ensures that the greenery remains lush, healthy, and inviting throughout the year.
Overview
Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), Moradabad, promotes water-conscious and climate-resilient planting practices as part of its long-term commitment to sustainable campus landscaping and resource conservation. The initiative focuses on creating green zones that flourish with minimal water, using treated water from on-campus STPs, native plant species, and smart irrigation technologies. By embedding sustainability into its horticulture and agricultural design, TMU ensures a green, self-sustaining, and water-efficient ecosystem that aligns directly with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Key Initiatives for Water-Conscious Planting
| Initiative | Implementation at TMU |
|---|---|
| Native and Drought-Resistant Species | Plantation of indigenous trees and shrubs. |
| Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation Systems | Installed in gardens, lawns, and agricultural fields. |
| Rainwater Harvest Integration | Collected rainwater is redirected for green belt irrigation. |
| Smart Water Scheduling | Irrigation is planned in early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. |
| Green Belt Development Policy | Campus area developed as green zone with water-conscious landscaping. |
Sustainable Practices and Techniques
| Technique | Purpose | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Drip Irrigation Lines | Controlled water delivery directly to root zone. | Reduced runoff and optimized plant hydration. |
| Mulching with Organic Waste | Retains soil moisture and adds nutrients. | Improved soil texture and reduced water loss. |
| Greywater Utilization | Treated wastewater diverted to horticultural areas. | Reduced stress on freshwater resources. |
| Plant Zoning | Grouping plants by water requirement levels. | Efficient irrigation planning. |
| Eco-Soil Amendments | Use of composted manure instead of chemical fertilizers. | Enhances soil water retention capacity. |
“TMU plants not just trees — it plants a future rooted in responsibility.”
Integration with Academics and Research
TMU integrates its sustainable planting efforts into academics and student learning through research and practice.
- Environmental Science and Civil Engineering students study irrigation efficiency, evapotranspiration, and soil moisture conservation.
- Annual “Green Audit” reports document tree count, irrigation data, and water reuse efficiency.
- Water-Conscious Planting Projects under NSS and Eco-Club promote SDG awareness and experiential learning.
“These initiatives link sustainability with learning blending data, design, and discipline”
Commitment Statement
At Teerthanker Mahaveer University, water consciousness is not a choice — it is a commitment to the planet. By combining scientific irrigation, native ecology, and community participation, TMU nurtures a green and water-efficient campus, ensuring that sustainability is cultivated, one drop and one tree at a time.
Overview
Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), Moradabad, has achieved measurable environmental, ecological, and institutional impact through its Water-Conscious Planting Initiative. By integrating treated wastewater reuse, native plant selection, and smart irrigation systems, TMU has successfully reduced freshwater consumption, improved soil and air quality, and enhanced biodiversity across its 42-acre green campus. The initiative demonstrates TMU’s leadership in linking water stewardship with climate resilience, directly contributing to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Environmental and Ecological Impact
| Impact Area | Measured Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Groundwater Recharge | Reduced borewell extraction; increased percolation through green zones and recharge pits. |
| Soil Health | Use of organic mulch and compost improved soil moisture retention. |
| Microclimate Regulation | Campus air temperature reduced and humidity stabilized. |
| Biodiversity Enhancement | Growth of native species increased bird, butterfly, and pollinator population diversity. |
“Every litre saved and every tree planted strengthens TMU’s environmental resilience.”
Institutional and Operational Impact
| Domain | Impact Description |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure Optimization | Drip irrigation and STP reuse minimize energy and water costs. |
| Regulatory Compliance | Achieved regulatory compliance with SDG 6.3.5 and Green Audit criteria. |
| Educational Integration | Students conduct field-based research on water-saving irrigation and native flora performance. |
Impact on Campus and Community Well-being
| Aspect | Visible Change / Outcome |
|---|---|
| Campus Aesthetics | Lush green landscapes are maintained even during dry seasons. |
| Community Awareness | Student-led drives promote sustainable plantation and water-use ethics. |
Commitment Statement
At Teerthanker Mahaveer University, every plantation decision begins with water consciousness and ends with environmental responsibility. Through innovation, data-driven irrigation, and a commitment to ecological harmony, TMU has transformed its campus into a living model of sustainable green infrastructure — where conservation and cultivation thrive together.
“Grow Green. Save Blue. Sustain Life.” — TMU’s Water-Conscious Planting Impact Vision