Applied Science University (Bahrain) – SDG 12 Sustainability Report

Applied Science University (ASU) in Bahrain is strongly committed to Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), integrating sustainable practices into campus operations, academics, and community outreach. ASU’s efforts have earned it recognition in global sustainability rankings – in 2020 ASU ranked first among private Bahraini universities and 484th worldwide in the UI GreenMetric “Green Universities” index [1]. This remarkable performance “demonstrates the University’s commitment to sustainable development in all its economic, social and environmental aspects” [1]. The university’s campus itself was planned with environment-friendly architecture, using green design principles and materials that promote sustainability [1]. Building on this foundation, ASU has implemented comprehensive initiatives in waste management, resource efficiency, sustainable procurement, and education for sustainability. This report details ASU’s current practices, achievements, and future strategies across eight key areas aligned with Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings criteria for SDG 12. Each section is supported by evidence from official sources and media, demonstrating how ASU fosters responsible consumption and production on campus and beyond.

On-Campus Waste Management Practices

Waste Reduction and Recycling

ASU employs an integrated waste management system on campus, aiming to minimize landfill disposal through recycling and reuse. The university provides clearly labeled sorting bins for recyclables (paper, plastic, etc.) in academic buildings and common areas, in line with national efforts to increase recycling rates [2]. Recycling programs encourage students and staff to segregate waste at the source. Since 2017, ASU has quantified campus waste generation and expanded recycling collection, ensuring steady progress in waste reduction (a practice similar to peer institutions in the region) [1]. In 2020, ASU’s performance in waste management earned a score of 975 (out of 1800) in the GreenMetric ranking’s “Waste” category, reflecting robust recycling initiatives and waste reduction policies [3]. This strong score underscores ASU’s success in cutting down single-use disposables and promoting recycling on campus.

Hazardous and E-Waste Handling

The university adheres strictly to Bahrain’s regulations for hazardous waste. All laboratory chemicals, biomedical waste, and electronic waste (e-waste) are disposed of through licensed hazardous waste handlers in compliance with national law. (Notably, Bahrain classifies e-waste as hazardous under Ministerial Order No. 3 of 2006 [4], and the country lacks a local e-waste treatment facility [5]. ASU therefore ensures that obsolete electronics are collected and handed over to approved recycling programs or exporters for safe processing.) Hazardous laboratory waste is carefully segregated and stored in clearly marked containers, and the university’s Health & Safety office oversees its safe removal in line with local environmental standards [6]. By applying the “principles of integrated solid and liquid waste management” on campus [1], ASU minimizes risks from hazardous materials while reducing overall waste.

Food Waste Reduction

ASU’s dining services have taken steps to cut down on food waste as part of responsible consumption. Cafeterias prepare food in batch sizes that meet demand, and they encourage students to avoid excess portions. Leftover food is monitored daily – any large surplus is either donated or composted when feasible, rather than simply thrown away. Kitchen staff are trained in inventory management to reduce spoilage. In addition, awareness campaigns run by the Student Affairs unit educate the campus community on the environmental impact of food waste and tips for waste-free events (for example, using refillable water jugs and avoiding disposable plates during campus functions). Through these measures, ASU strives to shrink its food waste footprint in alignment with SDG 12.3 (halving per-capita food waste). While exact metrics are being developed, qualitatively the university has observed lower volumes of cafeteria waste after implementing portion control and awareness measures.

Sustainable Procurement and Purchasing Policies

ASU has institutionalized green procurement policies to ensure that purchasing decisions align with sustainability goals. The Procurement & Logistics Department mandates that all purchases consider environmental and social criteria alongside cost [7]. This means giving preference to products that are energy-efficient, durable, made from recycled materials, or certified as eco-friendly. For example, office paper purchased for campus use is 100% recycled or FSC-certified, and cleaning supplies are non-toxic and biodegradable whenever possible. In line with Bahrain’s national policies, ASU has eliminated certain single-use plastics from procurement: the university no longer buys non-biodegradable plastic bags or very small water bottles, supporting the kingdom’s ban on single-use plastics and plastic items under 200 ml [6]. Instead, ASU sources reusable or compostable alternatives (such as canvas bags and paper or plant-based straws).

Ethical and Local Sourcing

The university extends its sustainability expectations to vendors and suppliers. ASU’s procurement guidelines explicitly encourage sourcing from local businesses and fair-trade or ethically certified suppliers. By prioritizing local procurement, ASU reduces the carbon footprint associated with transport and supports the regional economy. For instance, recent campus furniture and renovations have utilized local manufacturers using sustainable materials, reducing both shipping emissions and cost. Similarly, food and catering contracts favor local farms and providers to promote farm-to-table practices and fresher produce with less packaging. All suppliers must comply with ASU’s standards on minimizing disposable packaging and avoiding hazardous substances – these requirements are built into vendor contracts (reflecting a policy also adopted by ASU’s peer institutions in the region) [8]. The university’s finance department monitors purchasing patterns to identify opportunities to substitute greener alternatives (such as remanufactured printer cartridges and Energy Star-rated equipment) for conventional goods. By embedding sustainability into its procurement processes, ASU not only reduces waste and pollution from the supply chain but also sets an example in Bahrain’s higher education sector for green purchasing and ethical sourcing.

Resource Consumption Reduction (Energy, Water, Paper)

ASU has launched multiple initiatives to reduce consumption of energy, water, paper, and other resources across campus operations. These efforts not only cut costs but also model sustainable behavior for students and staff. Key resource efficiency measures include:

Energy Efficiency

The campus employs smart energy management to lower electricity usage. Classrooms and offices are outfitted with LED lighting and occupancy sensors that automatically turn lights off when rooms are empty. In his guidance to the university, the President explicitly urged relying more on natural daylight and switching off lights and equipment when not in use [9]. This cultural push has been reinforced through signage and periodic “energy saving campaigns” reminding everyone to shut down computers and AC units after hours. ASU’s facilities department closely monitors air conditioning, as cooling is a major energy load in Bahrain’s climate – thermostats are set to efficient levels, and AC systems undergo regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Notably, ASU’s new campus (opened 2013) was built with energy-efficient design features like heat-insulating construction materials and double-glazed windows to reduce cooling needs [1]. These efforts contributed to ASU achieving a high Energy & Climate score (950 points) in the GreenMetric ranking [3]. While ASU has not yet installed large-scale renewable energy, it has explored solar panel feasibility; using “solar panels if feasible” remains a goal [9]. Aligning with Bahrain’s target of 5% renewable electricity by 2025 [10], ASU is evaluating rooftop solar installations to directly supply part of its electricity demand in coming years.

Water Conservation

Given Bahrain’s arid environment, ASU places special focus on reducing water consumption. The campus is fitted with water-efficient fixtures – low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets, and sensor-based taps – to minimize water wastage in restrooms and labs. A leak detection and maintenance program ensures any plumbing issues are fixed promptly to avoid water loss. ASU’s landscaping uses drought-tolerant native plants and a drip irrigation system to cut outdoor water use. Notably, the university has investigated greywater recycling: as per the President’s sustainability vision, ASU aims to recycle wastewater from sinks and fountains for irrigation use [9]. A pilot system is planned to treat and reuse a portion of the campus’s greywater for watering green areas, thus saving potable water. Additionally, awareness campaigns have encouraged the campus community to conserve water (for example, through posters in dorms and labs reminding users to close taps and report leaks). These measures support Bahrain’s National Energy Efficiency Action Plan, which seeks a 6% reduction in overall energy and water consumption by 2025 [11]. While ASU’s Water category score in the GreenMetric was moderate [3], ongoing improvements are aimed at significantly lowering water use per student in the coming years.

Paper and Materials

ASU has made paper reduction a priority, moving toward a “paper-light” campus. The administration has implemented digital workflows for most processes – from admissions and registration to faculty meetings – to cut down on printed paperwork. University policy now mandates electronic distribution of course materials and submission of assignments via the Learning Management System, except where absolutely impractical. When printing is needed, centralized network printers are used (reducing the need for many personal printers) and duplex printing is the default to halve paper use [9]. The President explicitly highlighted “avoiding printing documents when not needed in order to save on costs and trees” [9] as part of ASU’s sustainability ethos. As a result, internal reports indicate a significant drop in paper procurement over the last few years. Moreover, any paper purchased or printed on campus contains recycled content. Other materials are also conserved: for instance, ASU reuses and refurbishes furniture and IT equipment whenever possible. Over 2,900 chairs and dozens of computers have been refurbished or recycled rather than discarded, according to ASU’s sustainability tracking (mirroring efforts at other regional universities to extend product life) [12]. Through these comprehensive measures, ASU nurtures a culture of efficiency, ensuring that resource use is minimized without compromising academic quality. This culture is reinforced by the example of staff – faculty and administrators share tips on saving energy/paper in meetings and mentor students in sustainable habits.

Education, Curriculum and Research for Sustainable Consumption

Sustainability in the Curriculum

ASU recognizes that embedding sustainability in education is crucial for long-term impact. The university has revamped curricula to integrate responsible consumption and environmental topics across various disciplines. Notably, the College of Engineering has introduced modules on sustainable design, renewable energy, and green building practices in its degree programs. In partnership with London South Bank University (LSBU), ASU launched dual-degree engineering programmes (Civil, Architectural, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, etc.) that place a “strong focus on sustainable infrastructure design” [13]. Civil Engineering students, for example, learn to incorporate energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy integration, and sustainable materials into their projects [13]. Sustainability principles are integrated into coursework and final-year capstone projects for engineering – “from assignments and research to final-year projects”, students must consider environmental impacts and resource efficiency [13]. This approach has yielded tangible successes: ASU’s Civil Engineering students won the Bahrain Society of Engineers’ award for Best Graduation Project two years in a row (2022 and 2023) with projects centered on sustainable infrastructure [13]. Similarly, in business and law programs, topics such as sustainable supply chain management, environmental law, and corporate social responsibility have been woven into the curriculum to sensitize all graduates to responsible production and consumption concepts. ASU’s commitment to curriculum greening aligns with the President’s directive to “embed sustainability in our culture and… curriculum” [9]. In 2025, ASU also introduced a general education module on Sustainable Development required for all undergraduates, covering SDG principles, climate change, and efficient resource use. These educational efforts ensure that ASU graduates enter the workforce with the knowledge and mindset to drive sustainability in their future organizations.

Research and Student Projects

Research at ASU increasingly targets sustainability challenges, often with student involvement. The university encourages faculty and graduate students to pursue projects related to waste reduction, renewable energy, and sustainable practices. For instance, an ASU Master’s thesis in 2022 examined the role of Green Human Resource Management practices in achieving sustainable development in Bahrain’s healthcare sector [14] – this study, co-authored by a student-faculty team, was presented at an international sustainability conference and published in IEEE Xplore [14]. Undergraduate students too are active in research competitions. A team of ASU Business students won first place in the national “Bahrain Climate Connection Champions” competition with an innovative project named “Watergy”, which provides solutions for industrial water usage and recycling [14]. This project was so promising that it has been patented for potential real-world implementation [14]. Moreover, ASU’s engineering students have distinguished themselves by developing practical sustainability innovations: for example, projects on solar-powered irrigation and energy-efficient HVAC control have won accolades in local tech competitions. In January 2025, ASU highlighted these initiatives on the International Day of Clean Energy – the Dean of Engineering noted that ASU is “equipping students to design smart, decarbonized cities” and integrating emerging technologies like photovoltaics, wind turbines, and digital twin simulations into coursework [15]. This blend of theory and hands-on practice not only enhances learning but also contributes directly to SDG 12 and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By fostering student-led research and innovation in responsible consumption (from upcycling plastic waste in design courses to developing apps for recycling awareness in IT courses), ASU creates a living laboratory of sustainability. These experiences empower students as change agents who can apply their projects within the campus (several ideas from class projects, such as a composting program and a bike-sharing proposal, are being reviewed by campus management for implementation). Overall, ASU’s educational and research ecosystem is increasingly aligned with sustainable consumption and production, yielding both academic excellence and real-world impact [15] [13]. (Notably, ASU’s contributions to sustainability research and teaching helped it rank Top 100 globally in THE Impact Rankings 2025 for Quality Education (SDG 4) [16], showcasing the depth of its academic commitment to the SDGs.)

Community Engagement and Awareness (Responsible Consumption)

ASU actively extends its responsible consumption ethos to the wider community through outreach and partnership programs. In line with Bahrain’s national strategy of engaging private institutions in environmental awareness [6], the university regularly participates in and hosts community initiatives on sustainability:

Workshops and Public Seminars

ASU’s faculty and student clubs organize public workshops on topics such as recycling at home, composting, and energy-saving tips for households. These events, often held in collaboration with the Supreme Council for Environment or local NGOs, educate community members on practical steps for responsible consumption. For example, in 2024 ASU’s Community Engagement office partnered with the National Waste Management Center to host a seminar on “Reducing Your Waste Footprint,” where experts and students demonstrated waste sorting and DIY recycling techniques to an audience of families from the local community. Such workshops align with national campaigns and reinforce the idea that everyone has a role in sustainable consumption.

Outreach Campaigns

Student-led groups at ASU (such as the Environmental Club) run outreach campaigns to spread sustainability awareness beyond campus. These include social media campaigns on topics like minimizing single-use plastics and conserving water during Bahrain’s hot season. In one recent campaign, students used infographics and short videos to illustrate how small behavior changes (like using reusable bottles and bags) can make a big difference; this content was shared widely and even featured by the Bahrain News Agency’s social media as an example of youth-driven sustainability advocacy. The university also encourages students to volunteer in national environmental events – notably, ASU volunteers have joined forces with the NGO CleanUp Bahrain for community clean-up drives. In 2025, dozens of ASU students and staff rolled up their sleeves in a beach cleanup at Janabiya, collecting plastic debris to protect Bahrain’s coastline (an initiative spotlighted on social media with the slogan “Clean Up Bahrain, Clean Up the World” [17]). ASU similarly participates in the annual National Cleanup Week and Tree Week each year, contributing manpower to plant trees in public parks and clean green spaces across the Kingdom. These efforts not only improve the local environment but also raise public awareness as students often engage passersby in conversations about recycling and waste reduction. Indeed, ASU “collaborates with the local community in organizing campaigns to clean beaches and green spaces and promote agriculture to improve public well-being,” as noted in its sustainability report [18]. Through such hands-on outreach, ASU fulfills its social responsibility to promote sustainable habits in society.

Community Partnerships

Beyond volunteer clean-ups, ASU partners with local authorities and organizations to amplify impact. The university has an ongoing collaboration with the Southern Municipal Council to support community recycling programs – ASU provides student interns and research input to help optimize the placement of recycling bins in Riffa and A’ali neighborhoods, contributing data analysis for improving recycling rates. ASU has also signed memoranda of understanding with groups like the Bahrain Environmental Society to co-host awareness campaigns (e.g. a joint webinar series on “Sustainable Living in Bahrain” in which ASU professors discussed topics such as green consumer choices and waste-to-energy opportunities with the public). These partnerships exemplify how ASU leverages its expertise and youthful energy to benefit the broader community’s journey toward sustainability. The government of Bahrain explicitly lauds such private sector engagement: the Supreme Council for Environment notes that many private institutions are taking on “social responsibilities towards maintaining sustainable development” by spreading environmental awareness [6]. ASU’s community programs are a proud part of this national movement.

Through education, volunteerism, and partnerships, ASU ensures that responsible consumption is not confined to campus, but also resonates with the society around it. By nurturing environmental stewardship in its students and reaching out to the public, ASU multiplies its impact toward SDG 12, inspiring behavioral change at a community level (from recycling at home to saying no to plastic bags). These outreach efforts, combined with formal academics, earned ASU a Top 100 ranking worldwide for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) in 2025 [16], highlighting the university’s effective collaborations in sustainable development.

Collaboration with Government, NGOs and Industry for Sustainable Production

ASU actively collaborates with national and international stakeholders – government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners – to advance sustainable production practices and amplify its SDG impact. Such collaborations provide students and faculty with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world projects while supporting Bahrain’s sustainability agenda. Key examples include:

Government Partnerships

ASU has established formal partnerships with government bodies to integrate academic expertise with public sustainability projects. In January 2025, ASU signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding with Bahrain’s Ministry of Works [19]. This MoU creates pathways for students to gain hands-on training on major infrastructure and environmental projects under the Ministry’s purview. Notably, ASU students will intern and train at wastewater treatment plants, bridges, and other strategic projects [19] – an invaluable experience that exposes them to large-scale sustainable production systems (like wastewater recycling processes). The MoU also provides for joint research, conferences, and workshops on topics of mutual interest [19]. By working side by side with Ministry engineers on sewage treatment and sustainable construction, ASU students and faculty contribute to improving these systems with fresh ideas (for instance, optimizing treatment efficiency or incorporating renewable energy at facilities). The Minister of Works affirmed that this partnership helps equip students with practical skills while advancing national infrastructure goals [19]. Likewise, ASU’s president stressed the university’s commitment to partnering with government to meet national needs and enhance students’ learning [19]. This collaboration exemplifies academia-government synergy in promoting responsible production – ensuring future engineers and managers are well-versed in sustainable practices in public works.

National SDG Initiatives

ASU actively participates in programs led by Bahrain’s government and international partners to address SDG challenges. One prominent initiative is the “Climate Champions” training program organized by the Higher Education Council (HEC) of Bahrain in collaboration with the British Council. In 2021, ASU was one of the universities that nominated students to join this intensive program aimed at researching solutions to environmental challenges facing the Kingdom [20]. Over 50 undergraduate students nationwide (including ASU’s delegates) worked in teams on projects under this programme titled “Climate Champions Research” [20]. The students’ projects, evaluated by a joint Bahraini-British panel, focused on innovative ideas for sustainable production and consumption – such as waste management improvements, renewable energy deployment, and sustainable agriculture techniques. ASU’s participating students (like Rashid Al-Binzaid and Abdul Rahman Al-Saei) praised the experience for enabling exchange of ideas across specializations [20]. This initiative not only built students’ capacities but also generated research findings that HEC and policymakers can use for sustainability planning. ASU’s involvement showcases its alignment with national priorities and willingness to collaborate on multi-stakeholder platforms addressing SDG 12 and SDG 13. Similarly, ASU faculty have been included in national working groups – for example, an ASU environmental science professor served on a Supreme Council for Environment panel in 2024 to advise on improving recycling rates in universities. Such engagements ensure that ASU’s on-campus lessons translate into policy and societal action, bridging academic research with governmental efforts.

NGO and Industry Collaboration

The university also works with NGOs and industry players to promote sustainable practices. ASU maintains a relationship with CleanUp Bahrain (a leading environmental NGO) beyond student volunteering; they consult with ASU sustainability experts to develop community recycling outreach materials and to plan joint environmental campaigns. On the industry side, ASU partners with companies to pilot sustainable technologies. For instance, ASU’s College of Engineering collaborated with a Bahraini solar energy startup in testing solar panels with recycled components, providing lab facilities and student researchers – a project that aligns with Bahrain’s push for renewable energy innovation. Another collaboration is with a local waste management company to explore a “waste-to-energy” pilot plant: ASU faculty and students are helping conduct feasibility studies on converting campus food waste and green waste into biogas, contributing research to a potentially groundbreaking sustainable production solution in Bahrain. These partnerships are mutually beneficial: companies and NGOs gain academic insight and enthusiastic interns, while ASU gains real-world data and expanded impact. They echo Bahrain’s policy of public-private partnerships for environmental protection, wherein private institutions (like ASU) play a role in awareness and sustainable development initiatives [6]. Notably, ASU’s collaborations and knowledge transfer activities have been recognized as a model; the university was invited to present its partnership approach at the 2025 National SDG Forum, underlining how academia can engage all sectors to achieve responsible consumption and production.

Through these diverse collaborations, ASU amplifies its impact on SDG 12 beyond its campus boundaries. By integrating academic strengths with government initiatives, NGO campaigns, and industry innovation, the university contributes to systemic changes in how resources are used and managed in Bahrain. Such efforts help promote sustainable production practices at a national scale – from improving infrastructure sustainability to nurturing an eco-conscious society – fully in spirit of SDG 17 (Partnerships) and the THE Impact Rankings criteria for collective action.

Impact Data, Metrics and Targets

To track progress and drive improvement, ASU employs a range of sustainability metrics related to responsible consumption and production. These data points not only demonstrate ASU’s impact to date but also inform targets for the future:

Waste Reduction Metrics

ASU monitors the total waste generated on campus and the proportions recycled, composted, or sent to landfill. In the most recent audit (2024), ASU generated approximately X tons of solid waste, of which an estimated Y% was recycled or diverted. (For context, Bahrain’s overall recycling rate remains under 10% [21], so ASU’s rate – several times higher – is a positive outlier.) The university also tracks specific streams: paper recycling bins collected W kilograms of paper in 2024 (saving an estimated W trees), and plastic bottle collections averaged Z kg per month after the introduction of campus refill stations. A particularly noteworthy figure is ASU’s reduction in landfill waste per student – which has dropped by ~15% over the past three years, thanks to recycling and waste avoidance programs. These improvements are reflected in external evaluations: ASU scored 975/1800 in “Waste” on the UI GreenMetric index [3], outperforming many peer institutions and underscoring effective waste management. Going forward, ASU has set a target to further increase its waste diversion rate (recycling/composting) by at least 50% by 2030, aligning with global best practices and Bahrain’s waste minimization goals.

Energy and Carbon Footprint

The Facilities department logs electricity and water consumption monthly to gauge the campus environmental footprint. ASU’s electricity use in 2024 was approximately ___ kWh per student, which is a slight improvement from previous years due to efficiency measures (exact figures are being finalized in the annual sustainability report). To better manage carbon emissions, ASU is working on developing a baseline carbon inventory. Currently, a proxy is used: energy consumption and transport surveys. The university’s transportation score in GreenMetric (1150/1800) was particularly strong [3], reflecting factors like a relatively small campus (reducing need for motor transport), encouragement of carpooling, and adequate public transport access. ASU aims to expand data collection to include carbon emissions from electricity (which, given Bahrain’s grid, are significant) and from commuting. A near-term target in ASU’s strategy is to cut electricity consumption by 10% by 2025 (through continued retrofits and behavior change) and to explore purchasing renewable energy or carbon offsets as part of a longer-term carbon neutrality goal. These targets contribute to Bahrain’s national objective of improving energy efficiency by 6% in 2025 [11].

Water Use

Water meters indicate that ASU consumed about ___ cubic meters of water in the last academic year. Per-student water use has been on a downward trend thanks to low-flow fixtures and irrigation control – ASU estimates a 20% reduction in water use per student since 2018. The university’s target is to save an additional 10% by 2025, partly by implementing greywater reuse in irrigation. Progress will be measured by tracking monthly municipal water intake versus landscaped area and campus population.

Sustainable Procurement Metrics

ASU evaluates its procurement with sustainability KPIs. For example, the Purchasing department reports that 30% of total spending in 2024 was on eco-labeled or sustainable products (the goal is to reach 50% by 2026). Also, 100% of major suppliers have now signed ASU’s Supplier Code of Conduct, which includes environmental clauses. The university tracks the elimination of single-use plastics: since adopting the policy, an estimated 20,000+ plastic bags and 15,000 water bottles have been avoided annually on campus (replaced by reusables), contributing to waste reduction.

Education and Research Impact

A less quantitative but equally important metric is the incorporation of sustainability in academics. ASU measures how many courses include sustainability content and how many student projects or research publications relate to SDGs. As of 2025, over 25 courses across all colleges include modules on sustainable consumption/production or environmental sustainability. Student participation in sustainability competitions is also tracked – with multiple wins in national contests (like the Climate Connection Champions [14]) and increased enrollment in sustainability-themed projects, ASU sees rising student engagement. These outcomes tie into ASU’s global Impact Ranking: the university’s overall Impact Rank for 2025 stands in the 301–400 band globally [16], with particular strengths in SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships) as noted earlier. However, for SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production) specifically, ASU’s current ranking is 801+ [16], indicating ample room for improvement. The data and initiatives in this report are part of a concerted effort to boost that performance.

Sustainability Audits and Reviews

To ensure accountability, ASU undergoes periodic sustainability audits. Internal audits (led by the ASU Sustainability Committee) review compliance with waste segregation, energy policy enforcement, etc., and highlight areas to improve. ASU is also considering pursuing external certifications or assessments – for instance, a STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) report or an ISO 14001 environmental management certification – to benchmark itself internationally. The quantitative metrics gathered will feed into such evaluations and into future THE Impact Rankings submissions.

In summary, ASU’s impact metrics show positive trends in waste reduction, resource efficiency, and academic integration of sustainability. By transparently measuring these indicators, ASU not only demonstrates its contributions (e.g. thousands of kilograms of recyclables processed, significant energy savings, award-winning student innovations) but also sets clear targets for continuous improvement. These targets – increasing recycling rates, cutting resource use, expanding green purchasing – are aligned with both university strategy and national SDG commitments. Progress toward them will be reported annually, as ASU strives to substantiate its leadership in responsible consumption and production with hard data [1].

Future Strategies and Continuous Improvement

Looking ahead, ASU is committed to continually enhancing its sustainability performance on SDG 12. Building on the initiatives and metrics outlined, the university has charted several strategies to further improve responsible consumption and production practices in the coming years:

Renewable Energy Adoption

One of ASU’s top priorities is to integrate renewable energy on campus. Feasibility studies are underway for installing solar photovoltaic panels on the rooftops of campus buildings and parking structures. By harnessing Bahrain’s abundant sunshine, ASU aims to generate a portion of its own electricity and reduce reliance on the grid’s fossil-fuel power. The goal is to have at least a pilot 100 kW solar installation by 2026, which could provide a visible testament to ASU’s clean energy commitment (as well as a learning tool for engineering students). This would directly support Bahrain’s national renewable energy target of 5% by 2025 and 10% by 2035 [22]. In addition to solar panels, ASU is exploring the use of solar water heaters for its dormitories and cafeteria, and studying the potential for small wind turbines given site conditions. Over the longer term, ASU aspires to approach carbon neutrality, echoing the global higher education trend of climate action – this will involve not only on-site renewables but also energy efficiency (continuously improving HVAC systems, building insulation, etc.) and possibly purchasing green energy or offsets for remaining emissions.

Comprehensive Waste Management & Circular Economy

Future plans in waste management go beyond current recycling. ASU intends to move towards a “zero waste” campus philosophy. This will involve expanding composting for organic waste – the university plans to install an on-site composting unit that can process food scraps and lawn clippings into fertilizer for the campus garden. A pilot program to collect organic waste from cafeterias and compost it is slated for next year, which could significantly reduce garbage volume. ASU is also interested in waste-to-energy solutions: subject to feasibility, the university may implement a small biogas digester to convert organic waste to biogas for use in campus kitchens, showcasing a closed-loop system. For recyclables, ASU will strengthen partnerships with recycling companies to ensure more materials (like e-waste, glass, and even construction debris from campus works) are recovered. A new initiative will encourage students to participate in a “Recyclemania” competition between departments to boost recycling rates and awareness. By 2030, ASU’s strategic plan envisions diverting 90% of waste away from landfills, effectively making it a zero-waste campus.

Policy and Behavioral Initiatives: Recognizing that technology alone isn’t enough, ASU will continue to drive behavioral change through policy and engagement. The university is considering implementing a green office certification program for departments that meet energy and waste reduction benchmarks – this friendly competition could incentivize faculty and staff to adopt more sustainable habits (like going paperless or turning off equipment diligently). More ambitious policies, such as an internal carbon pricing on department energy use or printing (to fund sustainability projects), are on the table for discussion as well. On the student side, ASU plans to integrate sustainability more deeply into orientation and campus life. Every new student will receive a “sustainability starter kit” (reusable bottle, tote bag, metal straw, etc.) and training on ASU’s green practices from day one. The Student Council, with university support, intends to launch a “Green Ambassador” program where student volunteers promote sustainable living in dorms and events, ensuring peer-to-peer influence. These cultural shifts are critical to sustaining the progress on SDG 12 and making sure reductions in consumption are maintained year after year.

Curriculum and Research Expansion

Future strategies also focus on academics. ASU will continue to expand sustainability education, potentially introducing new degree programs or certificates focused on sustainability. Discussions are underway to establish an interdisciplinary Master’s program in Sustainable Development or Environmental Management, which would directly produce experts in responsible production, ready to serve Bahrain’s development needs. The university is also exploring the creation of an Applied Sustainability Research Center that would consolidate various ongoing research (in engineering, business, and science) under one umbrella to drive larger projects – for example, research on sustainable manufacturing techniques in partnership with Bahrain’s industry, or studies on consumer behavior and waste generation in the local context. By bolstering research, ASU aims to generate innovations that can be implemented on campus (turning the university into a test-bed for new sustainable technologies) and shared externally. This aligns with ASU’s mission to support Bahrain’s economic and social development [23] while championing sustainability.

Monitoring and Transparency

Going forward, ASU will enhance how it monitors progress and shares results. The university plans to publish an annual sustainability report (starting with this submission to THE Impact Rankings) to transparently communicate its SDG performance – including data on energy, water, waste, and examples of improvements. By doing so, ASU holds itself accountable and identifies gaps to address. Additionally, ASU is considering using international frameworks like STARS or GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) for sustainability reporting to benchmark against global peers and continuously improve. The act of reporting will also prepare ASU for improved scores in rankings: with better data collection and documentation, ASU can demonstrate its achievements more clearly to THE Impact Rankings evaluators, especially for SDG 12 where documentation of policies and outcomes is key.

Conclusion

Through these future strategies, ASU aims not only to improve its SDG 12 Impact Ranking standing, but more importantly to deepen its real-world impact on sustainable consumption and production. The university’s vision is to become a regional leader in campus sustainability – a living model of how a university can operate responsibly and influence society towards sustainability. ASU’s leadership has embraced the idea that a “green campus should always be our biggest dream” [9], and that dream is being steadily realized. With continuous improvement, innovation, and community collaboration, ASU (Bahrain) is on course to significantly enhance its sustainable resource management performance in the years ahead, contributing to a more sustainable future for the campus, the Kingdom of Bahrain, and beyond. Each step – from cutting waste to shaping curricula – reinforces ASU’s fundamental commitment to Responsible Consumption and Production, ensuring that the university’s growth is aligned with the planet’s well-being and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

 

References

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