Replacement of damaged aerators to air diffusers at Stage 2 (Equalization Tank) and upgrade of filtration system to accommodate 100% effluent was conducted.  

b.1 Reverse Osmosis System
Installation and operation of the reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system as the final treatment stage. This RO system efficiently removed residual impurities, allowing the treated wastewater to be reused safely in non-potable applications. 

b.2 Wastewater Reuse and Recycling
Treated wastewater is reused for toilet flushing and watering campus plants and landscaping, contributing to significant reductions in the university’s potable water demand.

b.3 Rainwater Harvesting Integration
The rainwater harvester tank was activated to collect rainwater from building rooftops and is filtered before storage in non-potable tanks. Integrated treated rainwater with recycled wastewater for various non-potable uses, reducing reliance on the city’s main water supply.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Routine inspections and preventive maintenance of STP equipment, including pumps, filtration units, and the RO system, is conducted by JPBanosan Construction and Buildings Maintenance Office Technician to ensure safe and efficient operation.. 

Documentation and Regulatory Compliance
Maintained detailed logs of daily volume of treated wastewater and monthly water consumption. Effluent quality testing was also conducted to meet compliance standards and demonstrate regulatory compliance. The Environmental Management Bureau issued Discharge Permit in compliance with RA 9275 or Philippine Clean Water Act.

Microbiological water analysis is conducted quarterly to ensure the water is safe for consumption by students and employees. In addition to the water quality checks, regular preventive maintenance of the drinking fountains is also implemented to further ensure the safety and quality of the drinking water.

Monitored and recorded the university’s total water usage, sourced entirely from the main supply (BAWADI), to identify conservation opportunities.

Water Consumption per person for the year 2023
= water consumption/campus population
=25,243/19,501
=1.294 cubic meter/person

a.1 Organic Waste Produced
At the university, organic waste is collected from the trash bins along the hallways by housekeeping staff and transported to the vermicomposting area. This process helps in reducing waste and producing nutrient-rich compost for use in gardening and landscaping. Leftovers from the canteen are sold to employees for their pets, such as dogs and cats. Other biodegradable waste such as crumpled paper and tissues are not placed in the vermicomposting area but are placed at the garbage collection area to be collected by the City for proper disposal.

a.2. Inorganic Waste Produced
1. Collection of Non-Biodegradable Residuals
Non-biodegradable waste, which includes materials that do not decompose naturally, is collected from designated trash bins along the university hallways. This helps ensure that waste is sorted at the point of disposal, streamlining the collection and management process. 

2. Sorting of Recyclable Materials
Recyclable materials are separated from other non-biodegradable waste. These include: 
Metals: Items made of metal that are no longer in use or damaged. 
Paper: Paper waste such as used office paper, old newspapers, or any other paper that can be repurposed or recycled. 
Flat Sheets: Likely sheets of plastic or other materials that can be recycled. 
Monoblocks: Commonly refers to plastic furniture (e.g., chairs) which can be recycled if damaged or no longer needed. 
Plastic Bottles: Empty bottles, often from beverages, collected for recycling. 
Empty Boxes: Cardboard or other box materials that can be recycled or reused. 
Aluminum: Aluminum cans and other scrap aluminum materials. 

3. Turnover to Logistics Management Office
Once sorted, these recyclable materials are gathered and handed over to the Logistics Management Office. This office oversees the final steps in the recycling process and coordinates with other units for the proper disposal or repurposing of materials. 

4. Recycling Process – Sale at Junk Shops:
The Logistics Management Office sells these recyclable materials to local junk shops. This not only diverts waste from landfills but also contributes to a circular economy, allowing the materials to be reused in new products or processes. 

This structured process reflects the university’s commitment to sustainability by   ensuring that recyclable materials are responsibly managed, supporting both environmental conservation and waste reduction efforts on campus. 

Toxic wastes such as WEE, chemicals used by students during experiments, pathological wastes from medical clinic and nursing laboratory and paint cans are turned over to the Logistic Management Office for their inventory to be handed over to the Pollution Control Officer for proper labeling. The university ensures that its generated toxic wastes are properly disposed of through an accredited hazardous waste treater by the Environmental Management Bureau, complying with regulatory standards for hazardous waste management.

In 2023, the total electricity usage of the University of the Cordilleras reached 792,565 kWh. This significant consumption reflects the university’s commitment to providing a conducive learning environment across its campuses. Specifically, on the Main Campus and the Legarda Campus in Baguio City, electricity is utilized for a variety of essential functions.  

Lighting plays a crucial role in ensuring well-lit classrooms, hallways, and common areas, enhancing both safety and visibility for students and staff. Power outlets across the campuses enable students to charge devices and utilize electronic equipment for their studies. Additionally, electricity powers elevators and other mechanical equipment, which enables accessibility and improves operational efficiency throughout the campus. 

Furthermore, laboratory appliances—integral to the university’s science and engineering programs—rely on electricity to support experiments and research activities. This diverse range of electrical needs highlights the importance of efficient energy management strategies to support the university’s academic goals while promoting sustainability and reducing overall energy consumption. 

Total Electricity and Gas Usage (All Campus) in 2023

Pi Chart Percentage (%) Non-Solar, With Solar

Significant Energy Use

The University of the Cordilleras is committed to enhancing its energy efficiency through a strategic focus on energy management practices. This initiative empowers all departments within the institution to evaluate their individual energy consumption patterns and identify opportunities for savings. By implementing measures such as improved insulation, the installation of LED lighting, and the adoption of sustainable technologies, each unit can contribute to the university’s overall energy conservation goals.  

In the Philippines, the tropical climate presents significant challenges, with many regions facing high temperatures and oppressive humidity, particularly during the dry season. However, Baguio City stands out for its unique climate, characterized by cooler temperatures and balanced humidity levels. This natural thermal comfort reduces the need for mechanical heating and cooling systems, allowing for more sustainable energy practices. By leveraging its advantageous climate, the University of the Cordilleras can further optimize its energy management strategies, minimizing reliance on energy-intensive systems and fostering a more environmentally friendly campus. 

Replacement of fluorescent lights and incandescent lights to LED lights  
INVENTORY OF LED LIGHTS as of DECEMBER 20, 2023  

LED lights are more energy efficient, durable and environmentally friendly lighting solution for the university. LED lights provide better lighting quality. This can enhance visibility, reduce eye strain and create a more conducive learning environment. By adopting  LED lighting in classrooms and laboratories, the University can realize significant energy savings and reduce maintenance cost.