CITI University – Progress Report (2023–2024)
CITI University is actively implementing a wide range of initiatives aimed at conserving water resources, promoting reuse, and improving sanitation infrastructure. Key efforts include the installation of rainwater harvesting systems, sensor-based water monitoring technologies, and awareness programs to educate students, faculty, and local communities about responsible water usage. These initiatives contribute directly to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The university also follows policies to prevent water pollution and practices sustainable landscaping techniques to conserve water, reinforcing its commitment to environmentally friendly operations.
Water Usage and Management
The university’s annual water consumption is approximately 1,793 cubic meters, depending on summer breaks and other operational activities. This total includes water used in sanitation facilities and the cafeteria.
- Per capita water usage: 0.5 m³
- Water usage is monitored by standardized meters and managed under the supervision of the Water Management Department of the Ulaanbaatar CITI Governor’s Office.
Rainwater collected from building rooftops is purified using mechanical and filtration methods and then used to irrigate green areas and micro-gardens across campus.
Water Safety and Pollution Prevention
CITI University is connected to Ulaanbaatar’s centralized water system, which ensures that no polluted water enters the public water supply due to accidents or internal malfunctions. In support of this, the university developed and approved a seven-point Water Contamination Prevention Plan in 2021.
Access to Clean Drinking Water
The campus features 20 purified drinking water dispensers, which provide free access to safe drinking water for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
CITI University follows the Mongolian National Standard (MNS 5950:2008) on “Water-Efficient Buildings,” which provides guidelines for reducing water consumption through design and engineering solutions.
Sustainable Landscaping
To minimize water consumption in landscaping, the university’s "Baigal" micro-garden, established in 2004, includes drought-resistant plant species such as Caragana arborescens, Betula, Pinus, and Picea. Indoors, two Phoenix Roebelenii palm trees have been growing successfully for six years in Building #1, which features water-saving interior landscaping.
“Water Reuse Enhancement Policy – 2024”
In 2024, the university's Board of Directors approved and implemented the “Water Reuse Enhancement Policy – 2024” (Board Resolution A/01), which includes:
- Installation of rainwater harvesting tanks with filtration systems
- Use of sensor-controlled faucets to monitor and reduce water usage
- Training sessions for students, faculty, and staff on responsible water use
The Internal Quality Assurance Department evaluates the implementation of this policy twice annually.
Community Engagement and Education
CITI University has provided opportunities for local communities to learn about proper water management by:
- Including a “Water Management” course in the Master’s program in Urban and Regional Management
- Publishing a research article titled “Determining Water Usage in Tourist Camps” in the Q3 2023 issue of the CITI-Science journal
- Co-organizing the national training session “Every Drop Counts” in partnership with the Water Authority of Mongolia
Launching a New Program in Urban Water Management
CITI University is set to become the first higher education institution in Mongolia to implement the Master’s program in Urban and Regional Management. This interdisciplinary program is designed to address challenges such as urbanization, environmental change, and infrastructure development in modern society.
Water-Saving Projects Outside Campus
The university has also undertaken the following water conservation initiatives outside the campus:
- Organized two clean-up campaigns along the Selbe River to remove waste and prevent water pollution
- Conducted awareness sessions for residents of Sukhbaatar District, Khoroo #7, on water conservation practices
- Produced an educational content piece titled “How Many Days Can You Live Without Water?” to emphasize the importance of water
Promoting Water Awareness in Dormitories
To raise awareness about responsible water use among students in the dormitories, the university has implemented:
- Informational posters
- Educational multimedia content
- Topic-based forums and competitions with awards and incentives for participation
Strategic Partnerships
CITI University collaborates with the Water Authority of Mongolia, the Galba-Öösh-Dolood Gobi River Basin Administration, and the Tuul River Basin Administration to promote water security and sustainable water resource management.
